Here’s a simple Sandwich Bread recipe to make a soft, fluffy loaf of bread that’s perfect for sandwiches, toast, or just enjoying with butter. This recipe yields a beautiful, light loaf of bread with a soft crumb.
Sandwich Bread Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 cup warm water (110°F/43°C)
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil (or melted butter)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
- 1 tablespoon milk powder (optional, for extra softness)
Instructions:
1. Activate the Yeast:
- In a small bowl, combine the warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the water and stir gently to combine. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the yeast becomes frothy and activates.
2. Mix the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and the vegetable oil (or melted butter). If using, add the milk powder here.
- Mix everything together using a spoon or your hands until a dough starts to form.
3. Knead the Dough:
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes, adding more flour if necessary, until the dough is smooth and elastic. You want the dough to be soft but not too sticky.
4. First Rise:
- Place the dough into a lightly greased bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
5. Shape the Loaf:
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release any air bubbles. Turn it out onto a floured surface, and shape it into a loaf by rolling it tightly or folding the edges inward and pinching them closed.
- Place the shaped dough into a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan, pressing it down lightly to fill the pan.
6. Second Rise:
- Cover the loaf with a cloth and let it rise again for about 30-45 minutes, or until it has risen just above the top of the pan.
7. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
8. Bake the Bread:
- Once the dough has risen, place the loaf in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. If desired, brush the top of the loaf with melted butter right after baking for a soft, shiny crust.
9. Cool:
- Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Tips:
- Flour: Depending on the humidity and temperature in your kitchen, you may need to adjust the flour slightly. If the dough feels sticky, add a little more flour, but be careful not to add too much, or the bread might turn out dense.
- Storage: Store the sandwich bread in an airtight container or plastic bag at room temperature for up to 3-4 days, or freeze it for longer storage.
- Milk Powder: If you don’t have milk powder, you can substitute it with regular milk in place of part of the water, but be sure to adjust the liquid ratio accordingly.
This sandwich bread is soft, light, and perfect for making your favorite sandwiches or enjoying as toast. Happy baking!