Joy of Cooking White Bread Recipe

If you’re a fan of fresh bread, the Joy of Cooking white bread recipe is a fantastic starting point.

This simple and authentic recipe is perfect for both beginners and seasoned bakers.

You’ll love how it fills your home with a warm, inviting aroma.

One of my favorite aspects of this recipe is how flexible it is.

Feel free to experiment with different types of flour or add-ins like seeds and herbs to make it your own.

Make sure to knead the dough thoroughly for a perfect, fluffy loaf.

How to Make Joy of Cooking White Bread Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 tsp Sugar
• 1 tsp Salt
• 2 tsp Vegetable Oil
• 1 Egg Yolk (optional, for brushing)
• 1 cup Warm Milk
• 1 package Active Dry Yeast
• 3 ½ cups All-Purpose Flour

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Mix warm milk, sugar, and yeast in a bowl.

Let it sit for about 15-20 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.

Step 2:

Sieve flour and salt together into a large mixing bowl.

Step 3:

Add the yeast mixture to the flour and mix well to form a sticky dough.

Step 4:

Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10-15 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Step 5:

Transfer the dough to a lightly oiled bowl and cover it with a damp cloth.

Let it rise in a warm place for 20-45 minutes, or until doubled in size.

Step 6:

Shape the dough and place it in a greased 9×5 inch loaf pan.

Cover and let it rise again for another 20-45 minutes until it doubles in size.

Step 7:

Preheat the oven to 450°F.

Step 8:

Brush the top of the loaf with egg yolk, if using.

Bake at 450°F for 10 minutes, then reduce heat to 350°F and bake for another 30 minutes.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Use Fresh Yeast

Always check the expiration date on your yeast before starting.

Fresh yeast ensures the bread rises properly.

Warm Environment for Rising

Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free area.

A slightly warm oven (turned off) works great.

Knead Properly

Don’t skimp on the kneading time.

This helps develop the gluten structure, resulting in a soft, elastic dough.

Check Doneness

Tap the bottom of the loaf; it should sound hollow when fully baked.

If unsure, use a thermometer.

The internal temperature should be around 200°F.

Storage Tip

Store the bread in an airtight container to keep it fresh longer.

If you won’t eat it within a few days, consider freezing part of the loaf.

---

Serving Size: Makes 1 loaf, serves approximately 8 people.

Preparation Time: About 2 hours (including rising times).

Cooking Time: 40 minutes.

What to Serve with Joy of Cooking White Bread Recipe

Simple Butter Spread

A simple butter spread is a classic choice.

Good quality butter enhances the rich, homemade flavor of your bread.

Serve it slightly softened for easy spreading.

Fresh Vegetable Soup

Try a fresh vegetable soup.

It’s a hearty option that pairs well with the soft texture of the bread.

A bowl of this alongside your slice will make for a comforting meal.

Artisan Cheese

Include some artisan cheeses.

A sharp cheddar or creamy brie on top of your bread slices adds an extra layer of indulgence.

This combination works well as an appetizer or snack.

Avocado and Tomato Salad

Pair it with an avocado and tomato salad.

This refreshing salad offers a vibrant, zesty balance to the bread’s simplicity.

It’s perfect for a light lunch or dinner.

Honey and Jam

Another idea is honey and jam.

These sweet spreads complement the slightly savory taste of the bread.

Try different flavors to find your favorite combinations.

Variations and Substitutions

Flour Choices

You can experiment with different flours.

While white bread flour works great, mixing in whole wheat flour or spelt flour gives a nice texture and flavor.

For a gluten-free version, you can use a gluten-free bread flour blend.

Sweeteners

Instead of sugar, you could use honey or maple syrup.

Each gives a distinct flavor, and it’s a good way to tweak the sweetness and aroma of the bread.

Fats

Using melted butter instead of vegetable oil can add a rich taste to your bread.

You could also try olive oil for a different twist.

Milk Options

Warm milk is standard, but you can use almond milk, soy milk, or even oat milk.

This is especially useful if you are looking for a dairy-free alternative.

Extra Flavors

Adding herbs and spices like rosemary, thyme, or even garlic powder can enhance your bread beautifully.

Also, sprinkling seeds like sesame or sunflower on top before baking adds crunch and visual appeal.

Egg Wash

If you don’t have an egg, brushing the top with milk or cream works well to get that golden crust.

For a vegan option, you can use a mixture of water and a touch of oil.

How to Store Leftover White Bread

When you have leftover white bread, keeping it fresh is key.

Here are some tips I’ve found handy.

Use a Bread Box

Store the bread in a bread box at room temperature.

This keeps it fresh for up to three days.

Freezing for Long-Term Storage

If you can’t finish it in a few days, wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap.

Then add a layer of aluminum foil or place it in a freezer bag.

This prevents freezer burn and keeps the bread fresh for up to six months.

Paper Bag Method

Place the bread in a paper bag if you plan to use it within a day or two.

This allows the bread to breathe and prevents it from getting too moist.

Keep It Cool

Avoid storing bread on top of the refrigerator or next to a heat source.

Heat can cause it to dry out faster.

Slicing Before Storing

Slice the bread before storing it.

This makes it easier to grab just what you need.

Avoid the Fridge

Don’t store bread in the refrigerator.

This speeds up staling and makes the bread dry and tough.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Incorrect Water Temperature

Using water that’s too hot or too cold will affect yeast activation.

You want it warm, about 110°F.

Not Kneading Enough

Kneading is crucial for gluten development.

Don’t skimp on this step.

Knead for at least 10-15 minutes.

Rising Time Errors

Rushing the rising process results in dense bread.

Allow enough time for the dough to double in size.

Overflouring

Adding too much flour makes the dough dry and stiff.

Your dough should be sticky, not overly dry.

Not Preheating the Oven

Always preheat your oven.

Putting bread in a cold oven impacts rising and texture.

Remember, patience and accuracy are key in making great white bread.