Description
Mary Berry White Bread is a traditional white loaf made with strong white flour, yeast, and water. It yields a light and fluffy interior with a golden, crunchy crust. Known for its simplicity and ease of preparation, this bread is a staple in British households and pairs perfectly with both sweet and savory toppings.
Ingredients
Scale
To make one loaf of Mary Berry White Bread, gather the following ingredients:
- 500g (4 cups) strong white bread flour: The base for structure and elasticity.
- 7g (1 packet) fast-action dried yeast: Helps the bread rise and gives it volume.
- 10g (2 tsp) salt: Enhances the flavor and balances the sweetness.
- 300ml (1 ¼ cups) lukewarm water: Activates the yeast and helps combine the ingredients.
- 25g (2 tbsp) unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and a tender crumb.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, sift the flour and add 7g yeast and 10g salt. Stir to combine.
- Make a well in the center of the flour mixture, and pour in the lukewarm water and melted butter.
- Mix together using a wooden spoon or your hands until the dough starts to come together.
Step 2: Knead the Dough
- Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic. If using an electric mixer with a dough hook, knead for 5-7 minutes on a low setting.
Step 3: First Rise
- Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth or cling film, and leave it to rise in a warm place for 1-1 ½ hours, or until it has doubled in size.
Step 4: Shape the Dough
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down to remove excess air.
- Shape it into a loaf shape and place it into a greased 900g (2lb) loaf tin.
Step 5: Second Rise
- Cover the loaf tin with a damp cloth and allow the dough to 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 the oven to 220°C (425°F).
Step 7: Bake the Bread
- Bake the bread for 25-30 minutes, or until it is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool in the tin for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.