Sandwich Bread Recipe

Homemade Sandwich Bread Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide

There’s nothing quite like the smell of freshly baked bread wafting through the house. Baking your own sandwich bread is not only rewarding, but it also allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring a wholesome and delicious loaf. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this guide will walk you through how to make fluffy, soft sandwich bread that’s perfect for everything from grilled cheese to peanut butter and jelly sandwiches.

Ingredients You Will Need:

• 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour (or bread flour)
• 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
• 2 tablespoons sugar (for sweetness and feeding the yeast)
• 1 ¼ teaspoons salt
• 1 cup warm water (110°F/43°C)
• ¼ cup milk (room temperature)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 egg (optional, for egg wash)

Equipment:

• Large mixing bowl
• Stand mixer (optional)
• Loaf pan (9×5 inch)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Clean kitchen towel
• Wire rack

Instructions:

1. Activate the Yeast:

In a small bowl, combine warm water, 1 tablespoon of sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy. This step proves the yeast is alive and active.

2. Mix the Dough:

In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, remaining sugar, and salt. Add the frothy yeast mixture, milk, and softened butter. You can mix by hand or use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment. Knead the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic, which should take around 8-10 minutes by hand or 5-6 minutes with the mixer.

3. First Rise:

Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly greased bowl. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours or until it doubles in size.

4. Shape the Dough:

Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the trapped air. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and shape it into a rectangle. Roll the rectangle tightly, starting from the shorter end, forming a loaf shape. Pinch the seam and tuck the ends under to create a smooth surface.

5. Second Rise:

Place the shaped dough into a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan. Cover the pan with the kitchen towel and let it rise again for about 45 minutes to an hour until it doubles in size and reaches the top of the pan.

6. Preheat the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while the dough is undergoing its second rise.

7. Bake the Bread:

(Optional) For a shiny crust, brush the top of the risen loaf with a little beaten egg (egg wash). Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. The internal temperature should reach around 190°F (88°C).

8. Cool the Bread:

Once baked, remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. This step is crucial to allow the bread to set properly.

Tips for the Perfect Sandwich Bread:

• Use Bread Flour for a Chewier Crust: Bread flour has more protein (gluten) than all-purpose flour, giving the bread a chewier texture. However, all-purpose flour will work just fine for a softer loaf.
• Add Milk for Softness: The addition of milk enhances the softness and flavor of the bread.
• Keep It Warm: Yeast loves warmth, so ensure that your water isn’t too hot or too cold—110°F is ideal for proofing yeast.
• Storing Your Bread: Once cooled, store your homemade sandwich bread in an airtight container or plastic bag to keep it fresh. You can also slice and freeze it for future use.

Variations:

• Whole Wheat Sandwich Bread: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier, nuttier option.
• Herb-Infused Bread: Add dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or garlic powder to the dough for a savory loaf.
• Seeded Sandwich Bread: Sprinkle seeds such as sesame, flax, or poppy seeds on top of the loaf before baking for added crunch and nutrients.

Conclusion:

Making homemade sandwich bread is easier than you might think, and the results are well worth the effort. This basic recipe provides a soft, delicious loaf that’s perfect for all kinds of sandwiches and toast. With just a few ingredients and a little patience, you can enjoy the simple pleasure of fresh bread made from scratch.