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White Bread - Hand Kneading Method

Watch the how-to video below to learn how to make homemade white bread using a hand-kneading method.
White Bread - Hand Kneading Method
Yield 1 (9x5-inch) loaf

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup warm water (110-115°F)
  • 1 (0.25oz) package or 2 1/4 teaspoons Red Star Active Dry Yeast
  • 2 tablespoons plus 1 teaspoon granulated sugar, divided
  • 3/4 cup milk
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 3/4 to 3 1/4 cups bread flour

Instructions

  • Measure warm water in 1-cup glass measuring cup.  Add yeast and 1 teaspoon granulated sugar; whisk or stir until dissolved. Let rest for 10 minutes. The mixture will begin to foam and fill the cup
  • Meanwhile, measure milk in a 1-cup glass measure. Microwave on High for 30 seconds or until milk is warm (80°F). 
  • In large bowl, add warm milk, butter, 2 tablespoons sugar, and salt. Whisk to combine, using whisk to break apart the butter. Add 1 1/2 cups flour, whisk until smooth. Add dissolved yeast mixture; whisk until smooth.  Add 1 cup flour, stir until combined. Then add just enough of the remaining flour, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the mixture forms a manageable dough.
  • Turnout onto a floured surface or board. Add just enough additional flour to keep it from sticking to the board and to your hands. Knead 8 to 10minutes (set the timer), until dough is smooth and elastic.
  • Place in a large bowl that has been lightly coated with butter or oil. Turn once to coat the top of the dough. Cover bowl with plastic wrap. Place in a warm place to rise (proof) until dough tests ripe or is about doubled in size. 
  • Punch down dough; let rest 10 minutes. Meanwhile, lightly grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan. 
  • Roll dough into a 7×9-inch rectangle. Beginning on the 7-inch side, roll up and place in loaf pan. Cover and let rise again until imprint from a light touch remains on the side of the loaf (about 30 minutes).
  • Preheat oven to 375°F.
  • Bake at for 35 to 40 minutes or until bread sounds hollow when you tap the tops with your fingers (if necessary, cover with foil to prevent over-browning). Immediately remove from pan. Cool on wire rack.