There is nothing quite as comforting and rewarding as baking your own bread from scratch, and this Super Soft Bread Recipe promises just that—a pillowy, tender loaf that’s perfect for everything from sandwiches to warm buttered toast. With its delicate crumb, lightly sweet flavor, and golden crust, this bread feels like a warm hug fresh from the oven. Whether you’re a bread-making newbie or a seasoned baker, this recipe captures the magic of homemade bread without any fuss, turning everyday ingredients into a soft, irresistible treat you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each simple ingredient in this Super Soft Bread Recipe plays a vital role in creating the perfect texture, flavor, and appearance of your loaf. From the richness of butter to the gentle sweetness of sugar, every item is essential to bring your bread to life.
- 4 cups all-purpose flour: The base of your bread, providing structure and that tender crumb.
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast: The magical leavening agent that makes your dough rise beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness and feeds the yeast for optimal rising.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances flavor and balances the sweetness perfectly.
- 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F): Gives moisture and richness, contributing to the soft crumb.
- ¼ cup warm water: Helps activate the yeast when combined with sugar.
- ¼ cup unsalted butter (melted): Adds tender richness and softens the dough’s texture.
- 1 large egg: Binds ingredients and enriches the dough for a lovely golden crust.
How to Make Super Soft Bread Recipe
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
Start by combining the warm water, yeast, and 1 tablespoon of sugar in a small bowl. The temperature should feel like a cozy bath, around 110°F, just perfect for waking up the yeast. After a gentle stir, let this mixture sit for 5 to 10 minutes until it becomes foamy and bubbly—a sure sign that your yeast is alive and ready to bring your dough to life.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
Next, in a large bowl or stand mixer, whisk together the warm milk, melted butter, the remaining sugar, egg, and salt. This rich mixture creates the base of your dough and infuses it with moisture and flavor that results in that soft, inviting texture you’re after.
Step 3: Combine and Add Flour Gradually
Stir the activated yeast mixture into your wet ingredients, layering in the promise of a perfectly risen loaf. Then, begin adding the all-purpose flour one cup at a time. This gradual approach allows you to develop a dough that’s soft and slightly sticky—ideal for that tender crumb—rather than tough or dry.
Step 4: Knead to Perfection
Time to get your hands moving! Knead the dough either by hand or with a dough hook attachment for 8 to 10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. This kneading process develops the gluten network that gives your bread its structure while keeping it wonderfully soft.
Step 5: First Rise
Grease a large bowl and place your dough inside. Cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap and let it rest in a warm spot for 1 to 1½ hours. During this time, the dough will double in size, thanks to the yeast’s hard work, becoming light and airy.
Step 6: Shape and Second Rise
Once risen, punch down the dough gently to release any excess air, then shape it into a loaf or individual rolls. Place your shaped dough into a greased loaf pan or on a baking sheet lined with parchment. Cover again, allowing it to rise a second time for 30 to 45 minutes, so it becomes beautifully puffy and ready to bake.
Step 7: Bake and Finish
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), then bake your bread for 25 to 30 minutes until the crust is a lovely golden brown and your loaf sounds hollow when tapped. Right out of the oven, brush the top with melted butter to add a luscious softness and shine. Allow bread to cool slightly before slicing into that melt-in-your-mouth softness.
How to Serve Super Soft Bread Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like a light sprinkle of flaky sea salt or a brush of honey glaze can elevate your bread’s flavor and presentation. For special occasions, spreading soft herb butter or garlic butter offers a savory touch that pairs beautifully with the bread’s delicate profile.
Side Dishes
This Super Soft Bread Recipe is incredibly versatile and pairs wonderfully with soups, stews, or fresh salads. Imagine dipping a warm slice into tomato basil soup, or enjoying it alongside a creamy chicken salad—the soft bread soaks up flavors without overpowering them.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, slice the bread thickly for hearty sandwiches or hollow it out to use as an edible bread bowl for creamy dips. You could also toast individual slices and top with smashed avocado, smoked salmon, or your favorite spreads to turn your bread into an irresistible snack or appetizer.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Super Soft Bread Recipe stays fresh at room temperature when stored properly in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap. It’s best enjoyed within 3 days to retain its tender texture and delightful flavor.
Freezing
If you want to extend its life, slice the bread and freeze it in a freezer-safe bag. This way, you can grab just what you need and keep the rest fresh for weeks. Freezing actually helps lock in softness, so your bread can feel just-baked when thawed.
Reheating
To bring back that fresh-baked aroma and softness, reheat slices gently in a toaster or warm the whole loaf wrapped in foil in a 300°F oven for 10-15 minutes. Brushing with butter after reheating will boost that moist, tender feel you loved from the start.
FAQs
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose?
Whole wheat flour can be substituted, but keep in mind it will create a denser and less soft loaf. You might want to start with half whole wheat and half all-purpose to maintain softness while adding nuttiness.
What if my dough doesn’t rise?
If the dough fails to rise, your yeast might be inactive or the water temperature was too hot or cold. Always proof yeast in warm water and use fresh yeast for the best results.
Can I make this bread dairy-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the milk with your favorite plant-based milk and use dairy-free butter or oil. The texture might shift slightly, but the bread will still be soft and delicious.
How long does the dough need to rise?
The first rise usually takes about 1 to 1½ hours until the dough doubles in size, and the second rise is around 30 to 45 minutes. These times may vary depending on room temperature.
Can I make cinnamon rolls with this dough?
Yes! This dough’s softness makes it perfect for cinnamon rolls. Simply roll it out, spread your cinnamon sugar filling, slice, and bake as usual for a wonderfully tender treat.
Final Thoughts
Baking this Super Soft Bread Recipe is one of those joyful kitchen adventures that fills your home with warmth and irresistible smells. It’s approachable enough for home cooks of all levels and delivers a loaf that feels truly special. So preheat your oven, gather those simple ingredients, and treat yourself to the wholesome comfort of fresh, homemade bread that’s soft from crumb to crust.
Print
Super Soft Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf or 12 rolls
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Super Soft Bread Recipe yields a fluffy, tender loaf perfect for sandwiches, toast, or dinner rolls. Made from simple pantry staples, it features a soft crumb and golden crust thanks to a gentle baking process. Ideal for beginner and experienced bakers alike, this bread offers a homemade touch that’s both delicious and versatile.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour (plus more as needed)
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
- ¼ cup warm water
- ¼ cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 large egg
Instructions
- Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and 1 tablespoon of the sugar. Stir gently and let sit for 5–10 minutes until the mixture is foamy, indicating the yeast is active.
- Prepare the dough mixture: In a large mixing bowl or stand mixer, combine the warm milk, melted butter, remaining sugar, egg, and salt. Stir in the activated yeast mixture to blend all liquids and flavor components evenly.
- Add flour and form dough: Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing with a spoon or dough hook until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms, ensuring not to add too much flour at once to keep the bread tender.
- Knead the dough: Knead by hand or use a dough hook attachment for 8–10 minutes, until the dough is smooth and elastic. Proper kneading develops gluten, which gives the bread its structure and softness.
- First rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm environment for 1 to 1½ hours, or until it has doubled in size, which ensures a light texture.
- Shape the dough: Punch down the risen dough to release air bubbles. Shape it into a loaf or rolls, then place it in a greased loaf pan or on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Second rise: Cover the shaped dough and let it rise again for 30–45 minutes, until puffy, to achieve optimal volume and softness during baking.
- Preheat and bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the bread for 25–30 minutes until golden brown and the bottom sounds hollow when tapped, indicating it is cooked through.
- Finish with butter and cool: Remove the bread from the oven and brush the top with melted butter for an ultra-soft finish and added flavor. Let the bread cool slightly before slicing to set the crumb.
Notes
- For extra richness, use whole milk and add a splash of cream to the dough.
- This dough is versatile and can be used to make soft dinner rolls or cinnamon rolls.
- Store baked bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
