Classic Homemade White Bread with a Soft, Tender Crumb
There’s nothing quite like the smell of fresh homemade bread baking in the kitchen. This traditional white loaf bread recipe creates two soft, fluffy loaves with a golden crust that are perfect for sandwiches, toast, or serving warm with butter.
This comforting recipe from Big Mama’s Old Black Pot Recipes by Ethel Rayson Dixon reflects the timeless tradition of homemade breadmaking found in many Southern homes, where fresh-baked loaves were a staple at the family table.
Ingredients
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 2-1/2 teaspoons salt
- 5 tablespoons shortening
- 1 cup warm water
- 2 packages dry yeast
- 6 cups flour
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Dissolve the yeast in the warm water and set aside for a few minutes until foamy.
2. In a saucepan, scald the milk. Stir in the salt, sugar, and shortening until fully combined. Allow the mixture to cool until lukewarm.
3. Add the yeast mixture to the milk mixture and stir well.
4. Gradually mix in 3 cups of flour, beating until the batter becomes smooth.
5. Continue adding flour a little at a time until a soft dough forms. The exact amount of flour may vary slightly.
6. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for several minutes until smooth and elastic.
7. Place the dough into a greased bowl and lightly coat the top with shortening. Cover and let rise in a warm, draft-free spot until doubled in size, about 30–40 minutes.
8. Punch down the dough and divide it into two equal portions. Let the dough rest for about 15–20 minutes.
9. Shape each portion into a loaf and place into greased 9-inch loaf pans. Cover and allow the dough to rise again for about 1 hour.
10. Bake at 400°F for 35–40 minutes, or until the loaves are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped.
11. Cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Closing Summary / Pro Tips
- This homemade white bread is soft, fluffy, and perfect for everyday use.
- Great for sandwiches, toast, French toast, or served warm with butter.
- Letting the dough rise properly helps create a light texture and tender crumb.
- Fresh homemade bread freezes well for later use.
💡 Pro Tip: Brush the tops with melted butter immediately after baking to keep the crust soft and flavorful.
About the Creator
Ethel Rayson Dixon, a Louisiana native, shares recipes inspired by generations of Southern cooking traditions. Her cookbook celebrates homemade comfort foods and preserves recipes rooted in Black Southern culinary heritage.
Ethel Rayson Dixon | Big Mama’s Old Black Pot Recipes
Where to Find This Recipe
This recipe is adapted from Big Mama’s Old Black Pot Recipes by Ethel Rayson Dixon.
Find more amazing recipes like this in the book, available through local booksellers and online retailers.
