White Bread (Sponge Method)

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Servings: 2 cups Difficulty: Advanced
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Classic homemade white bread made with a traditional sponge method for superior texture and flavor.
White Bread (Sponge recipe image
White Bread (Sponge recipe image
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White Bread (Sponge Method)

Author: chefs-mate Cooking Method: Cuisine: Courses:
Difficulty: Advanced
Servings: 2 cups Calories: 100

Description

This classic white bread recipe uses a traditional sponge method, where a portion of the flour and yeast is allowed to ferment before the final dough is mixed. This technique develops a deeper, more complex flavor and a tender, airy crumb that store-bought loaves simply cannot match. The dough is enriched with milk and shortening, resulting in a soft, slightly sweet loaf that stays fresh for days. It is perfect for sandwiches, toast, or simply served warm with butter.

Directions

  1. Make the sponge: In a large bowl, combine the warm water and 2 tablespoons of sugar.
  2. Sprinkle or crumble in the yeast and stir until completely dissolved.
  3. Add 2 cups of sifted enriched flour and beat until the mixture is smooth.
  4. Cover the bowl and let the sponge rise in a warm, draft-free place until light and spongy, about 1 hour.
  5. Prepare the milk mixture: Scald the milk in a saucepan.
  6. Stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of sugar, salt, and shortening until dissolved.
  7. Cool the milk mixture to lukewarm (approximately 110°F/43°C).
  8. Stir the risen sponge down to deflate it.
  9. Stir the lukewarm milk mixture into the sponge.
  10. Stir in 5 cups of sifted enriched flour until a stiff dough forms.
  11. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface.
  12. Knead the dough until it is smooth and elastic, about 10-12 minutes.
  13. Place the dough in a greased bowl and brush the top with shortening.
  14. Cover and let rise in a warm, draft-free place until doubled in bulk, about 45 minutes.
  15. Punch down the dough and turn it out onto a lightly floured board.
  16. Divide the dough in half and let it rest for 15 to 20 minutes.
  17. Shape the dough into loaves.
  18. Place the loaves in greased 9x5x3-inch bread pans.
  19. Cover and let rise in a warm, draft-free place until the center is slightly higher than the edge of the pan, about 1 hour.
  20. Bake in a preheated 400°F (200°C) oven for about 50 minutes, or until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 2 cups

Amount Per Serving
Calories 100kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 0.5g1%
Saturated Fat 0.1g1%
Sodium 100mg5%
Total Carbohydrate 20g7%
Dietary Fiber 0.5g2%
Sugars 1g
Protein 3g6%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

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