Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. That means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through them, at no additional cost to you.
Baking bread at home used to feel like one of those things I admired from afar but never thought I had time for. Between busy homeschool days and full to do lists, the idea of kneading dough and watching rise times felt overwhelming. Once I started using my bread machine, everything changed. Fresh bread became something I could actually fit into real life.
That’s why I love this Homemade White Bread in a Bread Machine recipe. It takes less than five minutes of active work, uses pantry staples, and consistently delivers a beautiful, fluffy loaf. Whether you’re new to baking or just want an easier way to enjoy fresh bread, this recipe is a great place to start.
If you love using your bread machine, don’t miss my sourdough bread in a bread machine and whole wheat bread machine recipe.
Why Use a Bread Machine?
Bread machines take the guesswork and elbow grease out of the bread-making process. With just a few measured ingredients and the push of a button, you get fresh, Homemade White Bread in a Bread Machine with minimal cleanup. They knead, rise, and bake the dough all in one machine.
If you’ve ever been frustrated by dough that didn’t rise or bread that came out dense and tough, a bread machine might be just what you need. It provides consistent results every time with no bread-making experience required.
Bread Machine Baking FAQ
Can you use regular white flour in a bread machine?
Yes! Regular white flour works great in most bread machines, including mine. It’s perfect for classic white bread recipes and gives a nice texture and rise.
Can you make bread in a bread maker with plain flour?
You can, but plain flour (also called all-purpose flour) usually has less protein than bread flour, so your bread might be a bit softer or denser. My bread machine handles plain flour well, but I sometimes tweak the recipe for the best results.
Why is my homemade bread so dense in my bread machine?
Dense bread can be caused by several things: too much flour, not enough yeast, or even the type of flour used. Also, make sure your bread machine’s settings match the recipe. I’ve found adjusting water amounts and flour types in my machine helps create a lighter loaf.
What happens if you use regular flour to make bread?
Using regular flour can result in a softer crumb but less rise because it has less gluten-forming protein. It’s great for soft sandwich bread, and my bread machine adapts well to different flour types depending on the recipe.
How to Make Homemade White Bread in a Bread Machine
- 2 1/2 tsp instant yeast
- 1 cup warm water (about 110°F)
- 2 tbsp honey
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Bloom the Yeast
Add the warm water, honey, and instant yeast directly into the bread pan of your machine. Stir gently with a spoon and let sit for 10 minutes. This gives the yeast a chance to “wake up” and start feeding on the sugars. - Add Remaining Ingredients
Once your yeast is foamy, add the flour, olive oil, and salt. Make sure the salt is added last and not directly on top of the yeast to help prevent interference with the yeast’s growth. - Select Your Setting
On my KBS Bread Machine, I use Setting 1, which runs for 3 hours total. If your machine has a “basic” or “white bread” setting, that will likely work just fine. - Start the Machine
Close the lid and press start. Let your bread machine do the kneading, rising, and baking. - Cool and Slice
Once finished, remove the loaf from the pan and let it cool on a rack for at least 30 minutes before slicing. This helps the crumb set and makes slicing easier.
Tips for the Best Bread Machine Loaf
- Use fresh yeast: Old yeast won’t rise as well. If your yeast doesn’t foam during the blooming stage, it’s likely expired.
- Use bread flour for a chewier texture, or stick to all-purpose for something lighter and softer.
- Let it cool completely before storing to avoid sogginess.
- Slice with a serrated knife for the cleanest cut.
Make It Your Own
This white bread recipe is a great foundation. Once you’ve mastered it, try these variations:
- Add 1 tsp garlic powder and 1 tsp dried rosemary for a savory twist.
- Replace honey with maple syrup or agave for a different sweetness.
- Use half whole wheat flour for a heartier loaf.
- Toss in a handful of shredded cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, or chopped nuts before starting the cycle.
There’s nothing like slicing into a warm, fresh loaf of homemade bread, especially when it took less than five minutes to prep. This beginner-friendly white bread recipe is a staple in my kitchen, and I hope it becomes one in yours too.
Whether you’re baking to save money, avoid preservatives, or just enjoy fresh bread in your home, having a bread machine you trust makes a world of difference. If you’re looking to start your own bread-making journey, I highly recommend giving the KBS Bread Machine a try.
Happy baking!
Homemade White Bread in a Bread Machine – Beginner Friendly
Ingredients
- 1 Cup Warm Water
- 2.5 Tsp Instant Yeast
- 2 Tbsp Honey
- 3 Cups Flour
- ¼ Cup Olive Oil
- 1 Tsp Salt
Instructions
- Add the warm water, honey, and instant yeast directly into the bread pan of your machine. Stir gently with a spoon and let sit for 10 minutes. This gives the yeast a chance to “wake up” and start feeding on the sugars.
- Once your yeast is foamy, add the flour, olive oil, and salt. Make sure the salt is added last and not directly on top of the yeast—this helps prevent interference with the yeast’s growth.
- On my KBS Bread Machine, I use Setting 1, which runs for 3 hours total. If your machine has a “basic” or “white bread” setting, that will likely work just fine.
- Close the lid and press start. Let your bread machine do the kneading, rising, and baking.
- Once finished, remove the loaf from the pan and let it cool on a rack for at least 30 minutes before slicing. This helps the crumb set and makes slicing easier.
Want more bread recipes? Try these!
Hi, I’m Ashley — mama, maker, and lover of all things from-scratch. Around here, you’ll usually find me barefoot in the kitchen, covered in flour or beeswax, with kids underfoot and something simmering on the stove. I believe in slow living, simple joys, and the kind of home that smells like cinnamon rolls and sunshine. Find out more about me here.
