Sandwich Bread Recipe

There’s something truly comforting about the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through your home. This Sandwich Bread Recipe is a delightful blend of simplicity and richness, making it the perfect companion for your favorite fillings or a standalone treat with a touch of butter and jam. With tender, fluffy slices that toast beautifully and hold up well to all your sandwich needs, this recipe is one you’ll want to keep close at hand.

Why This Sandwich Bread Recipe Stands Out

What makes this Sandwich Bread Recipe a must-try? It’s all about the texture and flavor. This bread is soft yet sturdy, ideal for sandwiches, toast, or even French toast. The combination of instant yeast and warm milk creates a light, airy crumb, while the butter adds a rich flavor that elevates each slice. Plus, it’s made with simple ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. You can customize it or use it as a base for other delicious creations, making it a versatile staple in any kitchen.

What’s in the Bowl

To create this delectable bread, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 2/3 cup (363g) milk, warmed to 100°F – 110°F
• 2 teaspoons (6g) instant yeast
• 6 tablespoons (85g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
• 2 teaspoons (5g) kosher salt
• 3 tablespoons (37g) granulated sugar
• 4 3/4 cups (480 – 570g) all-purpose flour

Recommended Tools

To make this Sandwich Bread Recipe, having the right tools can make the process smoother:

• Mixing Bowl: A large bowl to combine your ingredients easily.
• Dough Scraper: Perfect for handling sticky dough and transferring it.
• Loaf Pan: A standard 9×5 inch loaf pan to shape your bread.
• Kitchen Thermometer: Ensures your milk is at the perfect temperature for yeast activation.
• Plastic Wrap or Clean Towel: To cover the dough during rising.

Sandwich Bread Recipe Made Stepwise

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In your mixing bowl, combine the warmed milk and instant yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy. This step is crucial as it ensures your yeast is active and ready to make the dough rise.

Step 2: Mix in the Ingredients

Add the softened butter, kosher salt, and granulated sugar to the yeast mixture. Stir until combined. Gradually incorporate the all-purpose flour, starting with 2 cups, and mix until a rough dough forms.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes. The dough should be smooth and elastic. If it feels too sticky, add a little extra flour, a tablespoon at a time.

Step 4: First Rise

Place the kneaded dough in a lightly greased bowl and cover it with plastic wrap or a clean towel. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.

Step 5: Shape the Dough

Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release any air bubbles. Transfer it to a floured surface and shape it into a loaf. Place it into the greased loaf pan, seam side down.

Step 6: Second Rise

Cover the loaf pan with a towel and let it rise again for about 30-45 minutes, or until the dough has risen just above the edges of the pan.

Step 7: Preheat the Oven

While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures that your bread will bake evenly and thoroughly.

Step 8: Bake the Bread

Once the dough has risen, place it in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. The bread should be golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Step 9: Cool and Slice

After baking, remove the bread 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 helps maintain its texture and prevents it from becoming soggy.

Easy Ingredient Swaps

If you’re looking to make this Sandwich Bread Recipe a bit different, consider these swaps:

• Milk: Substitute with almond milk or oat milk for a dairy-free option.
• Butter: Use coconut oil or a plant-based butter for a vegan version.
• Granulated Sugar: Swap for honey or maple syrup, adjusting the liquid accordingly.
• All-purpose Flour: Try whole wheat flour for a heartier loaf, or use whole wheat sandwich bread for a nutritious twist.

Chef’s Notes

For best results, ensure your yeast is fresh. Old yeast can lead to dense bread that doesn’t rise well. If you’re not sure about the yeast’s viability, perform a quick test by combining it with warm water and a bit of sugar; it should foam up if it’s active.

• Feel free to add herbs or spices to the dough for a unique flavor profile.
• To make a sweeter bread, increase the sugar to 4 tablespoons.

Shelf Life & Storage

This Sandwich Bread can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days. To extend its freshness, keep it in an airtight container. If you want to store it longer, slice the bread and freeze it in a freezer-safe bag. It will stay good for up to 3 months. Just toast or warm the slices directly from the freezer for a quick treat.

Popular Questions

Can I use bread flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, using bread flour will give your Sandwich Bread an even chewier texture and better structure due to the higher protein content.

What should I do if my dough doesn’t rise?

If your dough doesn’t rise, check the yeast’s freshness and ensure that the milk was at the right temperature. Yeast thrives in warmth, so a cooler environment can hinder its activity.

Can I add ingredients like nuts or dried fruits?

Absolutely! You can fold in nuts, seeds, or dried fruits after kneading the dough, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout.

How do I know when my bread is done baking?

The bread should be golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. You can also use a thermometer; the internal temperature should reach about 190°F (88°C).

Explore More

• Honey Butter Dinner Rolls – Perfect for any occasion!
• Almond Flour Bread – A gluten-free alternative that doesn’t skimp on flavor.

In Closing

Baking your own bread can be a rewarding and fulfilling kitchen endeavor. This Sandwich Bread Recipe not only yields delicious, fluffy slices but also fills your home with an irresistible scent that draws everyone in. Whether for sandwiches, toast, or simply enjoying a slice with butter, this bread is sure to become a family favorite. So gather your ingredients and let’s get baking!

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