sandwich bread recipe

Easy Homemade Sandwich Bread Recipe | Soft & Delicious

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The smell of fresh bread in the kitchen is amazing. It makes the air feel cozy and welcoming. As someone who loves bread, I know how great it feels to eat a soft slice with your favorite toppings. Today, I’m sharing a simple sandwich bread recipe that’s easy to make.

This recipe makes soft, tasty sandwich bread. You only need a few ingredients and simple steps to make it. It’s perfect for both experienced bakers and beginners. You’ll get a soft inside and a golden crust every time.

Key Takeaways

  • Homemade sandwich bread is easy to make with just 6 simple ingredients
  • The recipe yields 2 loaves of soft, delicious bread perfect for sandwiches
  • The dough rises in about 1-2 hours and the bread bakes for 30-34 minutes
  • Bread flour produces a chewier crust compared to all-purpose flour
  • Homemade bread can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days or frozen for longer-term storage

What is Homemade Sandwich Bread?

Homemade sandwich bread is a simple, soft white bread. It’s perfect for making delicious sandwiches. It has a fine, light crumb texture and slices cleanly.

This bread is made with all-purpose or bread flour, yeast, water, milk, salt, and a bit of fat or sweetener. The result is a soft, pliable loaf ideal for everyday use.

The recipe for homemade sandwich bread uses five simple ingredients. These are all-purpose flour, yeast, sugar, salt, and a small amount of fat like oil or butter. The dough needs to be kneaded for about 10 minutes with a stand mixer or 15-20 minutes by hand.

The dough should proof at a temperature between 75-100°F (24-38°C) for the best rise. Instant yeast and active dry yeast can be swapped in the recipe.

To shape the sandwich bread, stretch the dough into a rectangle and roll it into a loose log shape. An egg wash can be applied before baking for a softer crust and browning effect. Bake the bread at around 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes until the top lightly browns and the loaf feels light.

“Homemade sandwich bread is a staple in our household. It’s soft, fluffy, and perfect for making delicious sandwiches that the whole family enjoys.”

Whether you’re making classic white bread or trying different variations, homemade sandwich bread is a versatile and satisfying option for your everyday baking needs.

Ingredients for Soft Sandwich Bread

Making soft, tasty homemade sandwich bread starts with the right ingredients. Let’s look at what you need:

Essential Ingredients

  • Bread Flour: King Arthur Unbleached All-Purpose Flour is the best choice. It gives your bread the right structure and texture.
  • Milk: A bit of milk makes the bread soft and tender.
  • Water: Hot water helps the yeast work and hydrates the dough.
  • Butter or Vegetable Oil: This keeps the bread moist and adds flavor.
  • Sugar: A little granulated sugar feeds the yeast and adds sweetness.
  • Salt: The right amount of table salt balances the flavors and strengthens the bread.
  • Yeast: Active dry yeast or instant yeast makes the dough rise perfectly.

The exact amounts of these ingredients are in the full recipe. But this list gives you the basics for soft, homemade sandwich bread that your family will love.

IngredientQuantity
King Arthur Unbleached All-Purpose Flour3 cups (360g)
Milk1/2 cup (113g)
Hot Water1/2 to 2/3 cup (113g to 152g)
Melted Butter or Vegetable Oil4 tablespoons (57g) or 1/4 cup (50g)
Granulated Sugar2 tablespoons (25g)
Table Salt1 1/4 teaspoons (8g)
Active Dry Yeast or Instant Yeast1 packet or 2 teaspoons

With these ingredients, you’re ready to bake soft, delicious homemade sandwich bread. It will make your lunch or breakfast better.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Dough

Making homemade sandwich bread is a fun and rewarding task. It lets you pick the ingredients and make a soft, tasty loaf. The steps to make the dough are easy, making it simple for anyone to try at home.

  1. In a large bowl, mix lukewarm water, instant yeast, and honey or a vegan honey substitute. Stir until the yeast dissolves. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it gets bubbly.
  2. Add all-purpose flour and salt to the yeast mixture. Use a wooden spoon or your hands to mix until a shaggy dough forms.
  3. Put the dough on a lightly floured surface and knead for 7-10 minutes. It should become smooth and elastic. You can also use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment.
  4. Put the kneaded dough in a lightly greased bowl. Cover it with a damp towel or plastic wrap. Let it rise for about an hour, or until it doubles in size.

Follow these simple steps to make a delicious homemade sandwich bread. This step-by-step bread recipe for homemade sandwich bread uses bread making techniques that are easy to follow.

“The key to a perfect sandwich bread is in the preparation of the dough. By following these steps, you’ll ensure a soft, fluffy texture that’s perfect for your favorite sandwiches.”

Letting the Dough Rise

After mixing and kneading, it’s time for the bread rising to start. The proofing dough step is key for the perfect texture and taste in your homemade sandwich bread.

First, put the kneaded dough in a lightly greased bowl. Cover it with a damp towel or plastic wrap. Let it rise at room temperature for about 5 hours. This rise lets the yeast work, adding air pockets and leavening the bread.

Baking the Bread

When the dough has doubled, it’s time to shape it and bake. Gently knead the dough 3-4 times to deflate it. Then, shape it into an 8-inch by 12-inch loaf and put it in a greased bread pan.

Bake the homemade bread in a preheated 450°F oven for 30-35 minutes. The crust should be a deep golden brown. The bread’s internal temperature should be 195-205°F when fully baked.

Let the freshly baked loaf cool for at least an hour before slicing. This resting time helps the bread’s structure set, making it tender and even. With patience, you’ll get a soft and delicious homemade sandwich bread.

Preparation TimeCook TimeRising TimeServing Size
20 minutes40 minutes18 hours12 slices

“The smell of freshly baked bread is one of the most comforting and inviting aromas in the world.”

Sandwich Bread Recipe

Making homemade sandwich bread is a fun and tasty project. This simple recipe makes soft, fluffy white bread perfect for sandwiches. With just a few ingredients and basic steps, you can impress your family and friends.

To make this soft and tender homemade sandwich bread, you’ll need:

  • 3 cups (360g) King Arthur Unbleached All-Purpose Flour
  • 1/2 cup (113g) of milk
  • 1/2 cup to 2/3 cup (113g to 152g) of hot water
  • 4 tablespoons (57g) of melted butter or 1/4 cup (50g) of vegetable oil
  • 2 tablespoons (25g) of granulated sugar
  • 1 1/4 teaspoons (8g) of table salt
  • 1 packet of active dry yeast dissolved in 1 tablespoon warm water or 2 teaspoons of instant yeast

First, dissolve the yeast in warm water. Then, mix the flour, sugar, and salt in a big bowl. Add the milk, melted butter or oil, and yeast mixture. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.

Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. Place it in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise for 1 to 2 hours until doubled in size. Punch down the dough to release air bubbles, then shape it into a loaf.

Put the dough in a greased 9×5 inch bread pan. Let it rise for another 30-60 minutes. Bake at 350°F for 30 to 35 minutes until golden brown. Let the loaf cool completely before slicing and serving.

For the best results, use fresh yeast and proof it before adding it to the dough. You can also try cinnamon swirl or raisin bread. Leftover bread is great for breadsticks, rolls, or other recipes. This easy recipe ensures you always have delicious homemade sandwich bread.

Tips for Perfect Sandwich Bread

Baking the perfect homemade sandwich bread needs focus on a few key points. Follow these bread baking tips to make sure your loaf is soft, tender, and tasty every time:

  1. Use the Right Flour: Choose all-purpose or bread flour for a soft, fluffy texture. Stay away from whole wheat or coarse flours, as they make the bread denser.
  2. Proof the Yeast: Wake up the yeast by proofing it in warm water (105-110°F) with a bit of sugar or honey. This makes sure the yeast is active and ready to work.
  3. Knead Thoroughly: Kneading the dough for 8-10 minutes builds the gluten. This makes the bread soft and chewy. Don’t skip this step.
  4. Let It Rise: Let the dough rise for 1-2 hours until it doubles in size. This step is key for a light, airy loaf.
  5. Bake to Perfection: Your sandwich bread is done when it hits an internal temperature of 190-205°F. Use a digital thermometer for accurate readings.
  6. Cool Completely: Let the bread cool in the pan for at least 1 minute before moving it to a wire rack. This helps prevent it from collapsing or getting dents.

By following these bread baking tips, you’ll get better at making homemade sandwich bread. Enjoy your soft, delicious loaves!

“The secret to perfect sandwich bread is all in the technique. With a few simple tips, you’ll be baking bakery-worthy loaves at home in no time.”

bread baking tips

Tools for Bread Baking

Homemade sandwich bread is easier to make with the right tools. From measuring ingredients to shaping the dough, the right equipment makes a big difference. It ensures your bread turns out delicious every time.

A digital food scale helps you measure ingredients accurately. A dough hook attachment for your stand mixer kneads the dough perfectly. A bread lame or razor blade scores the loaf before baking.

A bench scraper is great for handling and shaping the dough. A proofing basket (or banneton) helps the dough rise into the right shape.

You’ll also need a loaf pan to bake the bread and a serrated bread knife for slicing. Airtight storage containers keep your bread fresh. If you’re serious about baking, consider a grain mill for fresh flour or a deck oven for professional results.

The right tools are key to making great bread. With the essential equipment, you’ll make soft, tasty homemade sandwich loaves. Your family and friends will love them.

  • Digital food scale
  • Dough hook attachment for stand mixer
  • Bread lame or razor blade
  • Bench scraper
  • Proofing basket (banneton)
  • Loaf pan
  • Serrated bread knife
  • Airtight storage containers
  • Grain mill (optional)
  • Deck oven (optional)

The perfect sandwich bread begins with the right tools. Invest in quality equipment, and you’ll soon be making delicious homemade loaves.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe for homemade sandwich bread makes a classic soft white loaf. But, you can customize it in many ways. Try different flours or add extra flavors to make it your own.

For a heartier taste, use up to half whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose. Or, use 3/4 oil instead of butter for a dairy-free option. It’s all about finding the right mix for your taste.

Why not try a Flaxseed Sandwich Loaf, Spicy Coriander Bread, or a Sourdough Sandwich Loaf? For a healthier option, the Eggless Banana Bread or Quick Zucchini Bread are great choices.

Homemade sandwich bread is all about having fun and being creative. Experiment with flavors and ingredients to create a unique loaf. This will make your sandwiches truly special.

VariationModification
Flaxseed Sandwich LoafSubstitute up to 1/4 of the all-purpose flour with ground flaxseed
Spicy Coriander BreadAdd 2 tbsp of freshly chopped coriander and 1 tsp of ground cumin to the dough
Sourdough Sandwich LoafUse 1 cup of sourdough starter in place of 1 cup of the water in the recipe
Eggless Banana BreadSubstitute 2 mashed ripe bananas for the eggs in the recipe
Quick Zucchini BreadGrate 1 cup of zucchini and fold it into the dough

Remember, the secret to great homemade bread is to experiment. Find what you like best. Enjoy making your own unique sandwich bread and take your sandwiches to the next level!

homemade bread variations

Storing and Freezing

Keeping Bread Fresh

Homemade sandwich bread is best enjoyed fresh. But, it can last up to 1 week if stored properly. Sadly, most sandwich bread bought from stores gets thrown away. Freezing your homemade bread is a great way to keep it fresh longer.

Many people freeze bread to prevent it from getting stale. A bakery owner says freezing is the best way to keep bread fresh. The trick is to keep the bread’s water content the same to prevent staleness.

Some think refrigerating bread is the best way to store it. But, it actually makes bread stale faster. Freezing, on the other hand, slows down staleness by keeping the bread cold.

Sourdough bread can stay good for a week or more without preservatives. This is because of the acid and changes that happen during making. Doughs with more fats also last longer before getting stale.

To keep your homemade bread fresh, slice it and freeze it in plastic bags. Freezing individual slices is convenient. They can be reheated quickly, making them fresh again. Toasting frozen bread only takes about 30 seconds, perfect for a quick breakfast.

By freezing your homemade sandwich bread, you can enjoy it for up to 1 week. This helps reduce food waste and keeps your baked goods fresh for longer.

Bread TypeShelf Life at Room TemperatureShelf Life in the Freezer
Commercially Yeasted Bread3-5 days2-3 months
Sourdough Bread5-7 days3-6 months
Bread with Higher Fat Content5-7 days3-6 months

Serving Suggestions

Homemade sandwich bread is incredibly versatile. It can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re making classic sandwiches, brunch dishes, or casseroles, this bread is perfect.

Sandwiches Galore

Turn your homemade bread into delicious sandwiches. Add your favorite spreads, deli meats, crisp veggies, and cheeses. You can make anything from PB&J to gourmet grilled cheese.

Breakfast and Brunch Bites

Make your mornings better with bread-based dishes. Try making French toast, breakfast sandwiches, or bread puddings. Your homemade loaf will make these recipes stand out.

Casseroles and Comfort Food

Use your fresh bread in casseroles and comfort food. Cubed or torn bread can make turkey a la king, hot brown sandwiches, or Reuben dips better. It adds texture and flavor.

No matter how you use it, homemade sandwich bread is a versatile staple. It can make your favorite dishes even better. Enjoy the fresh taste and the comforting aroma of a new loaf.

Conclusion

Baking homemade sandwich bread is very rewarding. It only takes a few simple ingredients and steps to make a delicious loaf. The secret is using quality ingredients like Red Star Platinum Yeast and following the right techniques.

Whether you’re a pro or new to baking, this easy bread recipe is a must-try. The soft white bread it makes is great for sandwiches, toast, or just enjoying by itself. Soon, you’ll be making homemade sandwich bread like a pro.

So, why not try this recipe and enjoy baking your own fresh bread? Your taste buds and wallet will appreciate it.

FAQ

What is the purpose of homemade sandwich bread?

Homemade sandwich bread is a simple, soft white bread. It’s perfect for making sandwiches. It has a fine crumb texture and slices cleanly for sandwiches, toast, or other uses.

What are the essential ingredients for making soft, delicious homemade sandwich bread?

You’ll need bread flour, yeast, water, milk, salt, and a bit of fat or sweetener.

How do you prepare the dough for homemade sandwich bread?

To make the bread, follow step-by-step instructions. This includes preparing the dough, letting it rise, shaping, and baking.

How many rise cycles does the dough need?

The dough needs two rise cycles. This helps develop structure and flavor.

What tips can help ensure the homemade sandwich bread turns out perfectly?

For perfect bread, measure ingredients accurately. Let the dough rise properly. Bake at the right temperature and time.

What tools are recommended for baking homemade sandwich bread?

You’ll need a mixing bowl, measuring cups and spoons, a stand mixer (optional), a bread pan, and a digital thermometer.

Can the classic sandwich bread recipe be customized or varied?

Yes, you can customize the recipe. Try using whole wheat flour, adding herbs and spices, or mixing in other ingredients.

How should homemade sandwich bread be stored?

Enjoy the bread fresh, but it can last up to 1 week if stored properly.

In what ways can homemade sandwich bread be enjoyed?

Homemade sandwich bread is versatile. Use it for sandwiches, toast, French toast, and more.

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