Mary Berry White Bread Recipe

Mary Berry's White Bread recipe is a wonderful introduction to the art of bread-making, perfect for both novices and experienced bakers. This guide will take you through the process of creating a fluffy, soft white bread that's ideal for sandwiches, toast, or simply to enjoy with butter.

Ingredients for Mary Berry White Bread

• Strong white bread flour: 750g, plus extra for dusting
• Unsalted soft butter: 60g
• Fast-action dried yeast: 18g (approximately 3 sachets)
• Salt: 3 tsp
• Tepid water: Approximately 450ml, should feel warm to the touch
• Olive or sunflower oil: For greasing

Preparation Instructions for Mary Berry White Bread

1. Prepare the Flour Mixture: Mix the flour and butter in a large bowl until it resembles fine breadcrumbs.
2. Add Yeast and Salt: Add these on opposite sides of the bowl to prevent direct contact initially.
3. Add Water: Gradually mix in tepid water until a soft, but not sticky, dough forms.
4. Knead the Dough: About 10 minutes by hand on a floured surface, until smooth and elastic.
5. First Rise: Let the dough rise in a warm place, covered, for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
6. Shape and Second Rise: Shape the dough as desired, let it rise again for an hour.
7. Bake: At 220°C (425°F) for 25–30 minutes until golden brown and hollow sounding when tapped.

Storage and Reheating Mary Berry White Bread

• Short-Term Storage: Wrap in a cloth or bread box at room temperature for 2 days. Avoid plastic, which can make the crust soggy.
• Long-Term Storage: Slice and freeze in airtight bags for up to 3 months. Toast slices directly from frozen.

Nutritional Information

• Per slice (approx. 15 slices per loaf): 180 calories, 36g carbohydrates, 5g protein, 2g fat, 390mg sodium, 1g fiber.

FAQs about Mary Berry White Bread

• Can I use all-purpose flour? While possible, strong white bread flour is preferred for its higher protein content, aiding in gluten development and texture.
• Why did my bread not rise? Potential reasons include old or inactive yeast, incorrect water temperature, or insufficient rising time. Ensure yeast is fresh and the environment is warm enough for rising.

Mary Berry's White Bread recipe is a testament to the joy of baking, offering a delightful blend of simplicity and sophistication. With patience and precision, you can bake a loaf that boasts a soft interior and golden crust, perfect for a variety of dishes and occasions.

For a more detailed guide and additional variations on the recipe, refer to the sources from Foodelity.co.uk​​ and Cooking with my kids​​. Enjoy the rewarding process of baking your very own Mary Berry White Bread.