Healthy White Bread Recipe

This recipe uses about 1/3 whole-wheat flour, which provides better nutrition while keeping the loaf light and airy.  If you have children who don't like whole-wheat bread, they may well accept this loaf.  It's also a great compromise if some members of your family like whole-wheat and others prefer white.

Healthy white bread ingredients

* Ideally, use an instant read thermometer to check the water temperature accurately.  If you don't have one, it's best to play safe and use cooler water.  Having the water too cool will just slow down the yeast's action, but too hot will kill it.  Place a drop of the water on the inside of your wrist.  If it feels neutral or just slightly warm on your skin, it will not harm the yeast. 

Healthy white bread method (bread machine)

This recipe will work if you use the ingredients in the order suggested by your bread machine manufacturer and press start.  (You should use this method if you want to set a time delay). Use the basic white loaf setting (or for a slightly higher rise if you have time you can use the whole-wheat setting).

Alternatively, for an even better loaf try ignoring your machine's instructions and use the following method (unsuitable for timer use)

• Put the warm water, sugar and yeast into the bread machine pan
• Stir with a wooden or plastic spoon - the yeast should dissolve and begin to froth and foam
• Leave it for ten minutes
• Add the flours, oil and finally the salt
• Set your bread machine to basic or white bread and press start

Healthy white bread method (by hand)

• Put the warm water, sugar and yeast into a bowl
• Stir with a wooden or plastic spoon - the yeast should dissolve and begin to froth and foam
• Leave for ten minutes
• Add the flour, oil and salt
• Mix well, adding a little extra flour or water if required
• Knead the dough until it is soft and smooth
• Leave in a warm place until doubled in size
• Punch down and place in a loaf pan or shape and place on a baking sheet
• Leave to rise again until nearly doubled
• Bake in a moderate oven, 350^oF/175^oC for 40-50 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the bottom of the loaf sounds hollow when tapped