How to Make Your Own Bread in a Bread Maker?

To make bread in a breadmaker, all you need is your ingredients, your machine, and a bit of patience. Start by loading wet ingredients (like water and oil) into the pan first, followed by dry ingredients (flour, sugar, salt), and finally the yeast—making sure it doesn't touch the liquid. Select your basic white bread setting, hit Start, and let the machine take over. In 3–4 hours, you’ll have a fresh, fluffy loaf. For a full walkthrough, check our white bread recipe for breadmaker steps in Part 3 above.

What Flour Is Best for White Bread?

Bread flour is the top choice thanks to its high protein content, which boosts gluten development for a chewier texture and better rise. However, all-purpose flour works too—your bread will just be a bit softer and may not rise as high. If you're aiming for bakery-quality results, start with bread flour in your breadmaker white bread recipe.

Is It Cheaper to Make Your Own Bread with a Bread Maker?

Absolutely. Homemade bread made with a breadmaker costs around $1.95 per 2 lb loaf , compared to $3–$5 for store-bought bread. If you bake regularly, the cost of the machine pays for itself quickly. Plus, you avoid preservatives and get full control over the ingredients.

What Is One Drawback of Using a Bread Machine?

One drawback is the paddle hole left at the bottom of the loaf. Since the kneading paddle remains inside during baking, it creates a small cavity. While it doesn’t affect flavor or texture, it can impact appearance. Some newer machines have removable paddles or beep when it's time to take the dough out before baking to avoid this.

Is It Cheaper to Make Your Own Bread or Buy It?

It’s almost always cheaper to make your own—especially when baking in bulk or eating bread daily. Beyond savings, homemade bread tastes fresher, contains fewer additives, and gives you freedom to tweak the recipe. It’s an easy win for your wallet and your tastebuds.

Why Are Breadmakers No Longer Popular?

Breadmakers lost popularity due to their size, inconsistent early models, and the rise of artisan bakeries. But they're making a strong comeback as people crave homemade food and healthier eating habits. New models are smaller, smarter, and easier to use—making bread baking fun again.

White Bread Recipe for Breadmaker – The Best Homemade Loaf in 2025

Name: White Bread Recipe for Breadmaker
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 3 h 30 min
Total time: 3 h 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F); 2 tablespoons white sugar; 2 ¼ teaspoons instant yeast (or 1 packet); 4 cups bread flour; 1 ½ teaspoons salt; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or melted butter

Description

An easy, fluffy white bread recipe made from scratch using a breadmaker. Perfect for sandwiches, toast, or enjoying fresh out of the pan. Simple ingredients, no kneading needed.

Ingredients

Scale

1 ½ cups warm water (110°F)
2 tablespoons white sugar
2 ¼ teaspoons instant yeast (or 1 packet)
4 cups bread flour
1 ½ teaspoons salt
2 tablespoons vegetable oil or melted butter

Instructions

Add warm water, sugar, and oil to the breadmaker pan.
Add flour, making sure to cover all the liquid.
Sprinkle salt on one side of the flour, and yeast on the other (do not let them touch).
Select the “Basic” or “White Bread” setting on your breadmaker.
Choose your crust preference (light, medium, or dark).
Press Start and let the machine complete the cycle (about 3–4 hours).
Once finished, remove the bread, let it cool on a wire rack for 20–30 minutes before slicing.

Notes

Use bread flour for best texture and rise.
Swap water for milk or add 1 tbsp dry milk for a softer loaf.
Let the bread cool completely before slicing to prevent crumbling.
For dairy-free: use plant-based milk and oil.
Optional add-ins: garlic powder, herbs, shredded cheese, seeds.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 3 hours 30 minutes
Category: Bread
Method: Breadmaker
Cuisine: American

Keywords: white bread recipe for breadmaker, breadmaker white bread, homemade white bread, basic white bread, easy breadmaker recipe, sandwich bread, soft white bread