Today we will show you to the ultimate guide to homemade sandwich bread recipe! Whether you are a fan of the classic white sandwich bread or looking to explore the rich flavors of a sourdough sandwich bread , we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll share a simple sandwich bread recipe that’s perfect for both beginners and seasoned bakers alike.
If you’re craving the tangy flavor of sourdough, we’ll walk you through some variations to make the perfect sourdough sandwich loaf. And if you’re looking for a healthier twist, try our whole wheat sandwich bread—it’s wholesome and satisfying.
So, let’s roll up our sleeves and start baking! There’s nothing quite like the aroma and taste of freshly made bread.
Sandwich Bread Recipe
Cuisine: InternationalDifficulty: Easy4
servings20
minutes35
minutes120
kcalThis easy homemade sandwich bread recipe is perfect for creating a soft, fluffy loaf ideal for any sandwich. Whether you’re looking for a simple sandwich bread recipe or the best sandwich bread recipe, this one has you covered. With basic ingredients like flour, water, milk, sugar, butter, salt, and yeast, you can enjoy a delicious, preservative-free white sandwich bread. For those who love variety, try adapting it into a whole wheat sandwich bread recipe or even a sourdough sandwich bread recipe. This versatile recipe fits seamlessly into your collection of sandwich bread recipes and sourdough bread sandwich recipes. Enjoy the satisfaction of fresh, homemade bread with this straightforward and easy sandwich bread recipe!
Ingredients
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup warm water (about 110°F/43°C)
1/2 cup milk (whole, 2%, or skim)
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
1 1/4 teaspoons salt
1 packet active dry yeast (or 2 1/4 teaspoons instant yeast)
Directions
- Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- Mix the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture, milk, and softened butter. Mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If you have a stand mixer with a dough hook, you can use it to knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
- Shape the Dough: Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release the air. Shape it into a loaf by flattening it into a rectangle, then rolling it up tightly. Pinch the seams to seal.
- Second Rise: Place the shaped dough into a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan. Cover it with the kitchen towel again and let it rise for another 1 hour, or until it has risen about 1 inch above the rim of the pan.
- Bake the Bread: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the bread for 30-35 minutes, or until it is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. If you have a kitchen thermometer, the internal temperature should be around 190°F (88°C).
- Cool and Enjoy: 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.
Notes
- Using Whole Wheat Flour: For a healthier option, you can substitute up to half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. This will give the bread a slightly denser texture and a richer flavor.
- Adding Seeds: For extra texture and nutrition, consider adding seeds like flaxseeds, sunflower seeds, or chia seeds to the dough. Simply mix them in during the kneading process.
- Milk Alternatives: If you prefer a dairy-free version, you can substitute the milk with almond milk, soy milk, or any other plant-based milk.
- Baking Variations: If you prefer a crustier loaf, bake the bread at a higher temperature (375°F/190°C) for a shorter time (25-30 minutes). For a softer crust, brush the top with melted butter immediately after baking.
- Flavor Enhancements: Add herbs like rosemary, thyme, or garlic powder to the dough for a savory twist. You can also mix in shredded cheese for a cheesy bread.
- Sweeteners: Instead of granulated sugar, you can use honey or maple syrup for a different flavor profile. Adjust the amount to taste.
Tips for Perfect Sandwich Bread Recipe:
- Use Fresh Yeast: Make sure your yeast is fresh and active. Because, expired yeast can result in a dense loaf.
- Proper Kneading: Kneading develops the gluten, which gives the bread its structure. Don’t skip this step!
- Warm Environment: Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free place. If your kitchen is cold, you can place the dough in an oven with the light on.
- Storage Tips: Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to store it for longer time, slice the bread and freeze it. Then, toast slices directly from the freezer as needed.
- Sourdough Option: If you have a sourdough starter, you can use it instead of yeast. Replace the yeast with 1 cup of active sourdough starter and reduce the flour and water accordingly.
- Steam for a Crispy Crust: To achieve a beautifully crispy crust, place a shallow pan of water on the bottom rack of your oven while preheating. The steam created during baking will enhance the crust’s texture, giving your bread a professional bakery finish.
FAQ
Absolutely! Just keep in mind that whole wheat flour absorbs more liquid, so you may need to add a little extra water or milk to get the right dough consistency. It will make your bread a bit denser but super nutritious!
A simple trick: gently press your finger into the dough. If it springs back slowly, it’s ready. If it bounces right back, give it a bit more time. Usually, 1-2 hours in a warm spot is enough.
Dense bread can happen if the dough didn’t rise long enough or if there was too much flour. Try to be gentle when measuring flour and give the dough plenty of time to rise in a warm place.
Totally! Just knead by hand for about 10-12 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. It’s a bit of a workout, but it works just as well.
This homemade sandwich bread recipe is soft, fluffy, and perfect for any type of sandwich. Plus, it’s free from preservatives and additives found in store-bought bread. Give it a try and enjoy the satisfaction of baking your own bread at home!
For more about our Bread recipes check our collection of original Bread Recipes!
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