Golden Honey White Bread is a delightful twist on a classic loaf. Its subtle sweetness and light, fluffy texture make it perfect for sandwiches, toast, or simply enjoying with a pat of butter. Let's dive in and make bread that's bound to become a household favorite!
The base of our bread is all-purpose flour, which gives structure to the loaf. The touch of honey not only adds sweetness but also helps with browning and moisture retention. Salt enhances flavor, balancing the sweetness. The active dry yeast is essential for the rise, giving our bread its airy texture. The warm water activates the yeast, while unsalted butter adds richness and a subtle flavor that rounds out the bread.
This bread is a versatile base for many meals. Try it with a hearty bowl of soup, or use it to make a delightful grilled cheese. It's also fantastic toasted with a drizzle of honey or a spread of homemade jam.
Start by preparing your yeast mixture. In a large bowl, combine the warm water and honey. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for 5-10 minutes. You'll know it's ready when it's foamy — that's the yeast waking up and getting to work.
Next, add the flour, salt, and melted butter to the yeast mixture. Stir until the dough starts to come together. It will look a bit shaggy, but that's okay. Move it to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until it's smooth and elastic.
Once kneaded, place the dough in a greased bowl, turning it to coat all sides. Cover it with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm spot until doubled in size, roughly about an hour.
After the first rise, gently punch down the dough to release some of the gas. Shape it into a loaf and transfer it to a greased 9x5-inch loaf pan. Cover again and let it rise for another 30-40 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
When ready, bake for 25-30 minutes until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when you tap it. Let it cool completely on a wire rack before slicing to ensure the best texture.