James Martin White Bread Recipe

The James Martin White Bread Recipe is a timeless classic that results in a soft, fluffy loaf with a golden crust. Perfect for sandwiches, toast, or simply enjoyed with butter, this white bread is easy to make at home. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, the simple ingredients and straightforward steps in this recipe make it accessible to everyone. The aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through your home is a bonus, and the result is a loaf that looks as good as it tastes, taking about 3 hours from start to finish.

What is James Martin White Bread?

James Martin White Bread is a traditional white loaf made with just a few basic ingredients: flour, water, yeast, and a touch of sugar and salt. The dough is kneaded until smooth and then allowed to rise before being baked to perfection. The result is a light and airy interior encased in a beautifully browned, crusty exterior.

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Why You Should Try This Recipe

• Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples like flour, yeast, and water, this bread is easy to whip up.
• Perfect Texture: Soft, fluffy inside with a golden, crisp crust.
• Versatile: Great for toast, sandwiches, or as a side with soups and stews.
• Beginner-Friendly: Even if you’ve never baked bread before, this recipe is easy to follow.
• Fresh Taste: Nothing beats the flavor of freshly baked homemade bread.
• Budget-Friendly: Make a loaf for a fraction of the cost of store-bought bread.

Ingredients Needed to Make James Martin White Bread

To make one loaf of James Martin White Bread, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 500g (4 cups) strong white bread flour: The base for the bread, providing structure and chew.
• 10g (2 tsp) salt: Enhances the flavor of the bread.
• 10g (2 tsp) sugar: Feeds the yeast and helps with browning the crust.
• 7g (1 packet) fast-action dried yeast: The leavening agent that helps the bread rise.
• 320ml (1 ⅓ cups) lukewarm water: Activates the yeast and binds the ingredients together.
• 20g (2 tbsp) unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and a tender texture to the bread.

Equipment

For this James Martin White Bread Recipe, you’ll need:

• Mixing bowls: For combining and kneading the dough.
• Electric mixer with dough hook attachment (optional): To knead the dough more easily.
• Measuring cups and spoons: To measure the ingredients accurately.
• Loaf tin (900g/2lb): To shape and bake the bread.
• Clean kitchen towel: Cover the dough while it rises.
• Baking tray: To catch any excess during baking.
• Wire rack: For cooling the bread after baking.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Prepare James Martin White Bread

Now let’s walk through the steps to bake a perfect loaf of white bread.

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

• In a large bowl, mix the flour, salt, sugar, and yeast together.
• Make a well in the center, then pour in the lukewarm water and melted butter.
• Mix with a wooden spoon until a sticky dough forms.

Step 2: Knead the Dough

• Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface.
• Knead for 10 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic. If using a mixer with a dough hook, knead for about 5 minutes.

Step 3: First Rise

• Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel, and leave it to rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Step 4: Shape the Dough

• Once risen, punch the dough down to release the air.
• Shape the dough into a log and place it into a greased loaf tin.

Step 5: Second Rise

• Cover the loaf tin with a towel and let the dough rise again for 30-45 minutes, or until it reaches the top of the tin.

Step 6: Preheat the Oven

• While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F).

Step 7: Bake the Bread

• Bake the loaf for 25-30 minutes, or until it is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
• Remove the loaf from the oven and transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

What Goes Well With James Martin White Bread?

Pairing this delicious white bread with the right sides can elevate your experience.

• Butter and Jam: Spread a generous layer of butter and your favorite jam for a simple, tasty treat.
• Cheese: Melted cheese or a cheese spread pairs wonderfully with the soft texture of the bread.
• Soup: Serve with hearty soups like tomato or vegetables for a comforting meal.
• Avocado Toast: Mash avocado with a squeeze of lemon for a modern twist.
• Eggs: A perfect base for scrambled or fried eggs.
• Cold Cuts: Create sandwiches with ham, turkey, or other cold cuts.
• Honey or Nut Butter: A drizzle of honey or spread of almond or peanut butter makes for a quick and satisfying snack.

Expert Tips for Making the Best James Martin White Bread

To ensure your bread turns out perfectly every time, follow these expert tips:

• Use Warm Water: Ensure the water is lukewarm, not hot, to activate the yeast without killing it.
• Knead Properly: Kneading for at least 10 minutes is essential for developing the gluten that gives the bread its structure.
• First Rise is Key: Letting the dough rise until doubled in size ensures a light and airy loaf.
• Preheat the Oven: Always preheat the oven before placing the bread in to bake to get the best rise.
• Cool Before Slicing: Let the bread cool completely before slicing to avoid crushing the loaf.
• Use Bread Flour: Strong white bread flour works best to create a chewy texture and good structure.

Easy Variations of James Martin White Bread

Add a personal touch to your bread by trying out these variations:

• Whole Wheat: Swap half of the white flour for whole wheat flour for a healthier option.
• Garlic and Herb Bread: Add minced garlic and dried herbs to the dough for a savory loaf.
• Seeded Bread: Mix in flaxseeds, chia seeds, or sunflower seeds for added texture and nutrition.
• Cheese Bread: Add grated cheddar or Parmesan for a cheesy twist.
• Honey Bread: Replace the sugar with honey for a slightly sweeter flavor.
• Fruit and Nut: Incorporate dried fruits and chopped nuts for a sweet, nutty loaf.

Best Practices to Store James Martin White Bread

Proper storage will keep your bread fresh for longer:

• Room Temperature: Store the bread in a bread box or airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Wrap the loaf in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Refrigeration: Avoid refrigerating as it can make the bread dry and stale faster.

Best Practices to Reheat James Martin White Bread

To restore the fresh-baked texture, reheating your bread properly is key:

• Oven Method: Preheat the oven to 160°C (325°F) and warm the bread for 5-10 minutes.
• Microwave: Wrap a slice in a damp paper towel and microwave for 10-15 seconds to soften.

How Can I Make James Martin White Bread Healthier?

For a healthier twist on this classic recipe, try these adjustments:

• Use Whole Wheat Flour: Replace half of the white flour with whole wheat for added fiber.
• Reduce Sugar: Cut the sugar in half or replace it with honey or maple syrup.
• Add Seeds: Mix in flaxseeds or chia seeds for extra nutrition.
• Use Olive Oil: Substitute butter with olive oil for a healthier fat option.
• Reduce Salt: Lower the amount of salt to reduce sodium intake.

Nutrition Value (per serving)

• Calories: 150
• Fat: 3g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 1g

FAQs

Why is my homemade bread dense?

Homemade bread can turn out dense if the dough isn’t kneaded enough or the yeast is inactive. Proper kneading helps develop gluten, which gives the bread its structure. Additionally, using fresh, active yeast ensures the dough rises properly, resulting in a lighter loaf.

Can I freeze James Martin’s White Bread?

Yes, you can freeze James Martin White Bread. After baking and cooling, wrap the loaf in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze it for up to 3 months. To enjoy later, thaw the bread at room temperature or reheat it in the oven.

How do I know when my bread is fully baked?

You can check if the bread is fully baked by tapping the bottom of the loaf; it should sound hollow. Alternatively, an internal temperature of 90°C (195°F) indicates the bread is done.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of white flour?

Yes, you can replace half of the white bread flour with whole wheat flour. This will give the bread a denser texture and slightly nutty flavor. For a lighter result, use a mix of white and whole wheat flour.

Final Words

The James Martin White Bread Recipe is a simple, timeless bread that delivers a soft, airy texture with a golden crust.

Whether you’re baking for a family meal, a special occasion, or just to have fresh bread on hand, this recipe is sure to impress. With its versatility and ease of preparation, it’s a staple that every home baker should try. Enjoy your homemade bread with a variety of spreads, soups, or as a satisfying sandwich base!

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