sandwich loaf recipe

Here’s a straightforward recipe for a soft and fluffy sandwich loaf!

Mix the Dry Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and instant yeast. Mix well.
Add Wet Ingredients:
- Make a well in the center and add the warm milk, melted butter, and egg (if using). Mix until a dough forms.
Knead the Dough:
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface. Knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. You can also use a stand mixer with a dough hook for about 5-7 minutes.
First Rise:
- Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl. Cover it with plastic wrap or a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1-2 hours.
Shape the Loaf:
- Once risen, punch down the dough to release air. Turn it out onto a floured surface and shape it into a rectangle. Roll it tightly from one short side to the other to form a log.
Second Rise:
- Place the shaped dough seam-side down in a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan. Cover it with a damp cloth and let it rise again until it has risen above the rim of the pan, about 30-60 minutes.
Preheat the Oven:
- About 20 minutes before baking, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Bake the Bread:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the loaf is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. The internal temperature should be around 190°F (88°C).
Cool:
- 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.

Storage: Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for a few days, or freeze it for longer storage.
Variations: You can add herbs, cheese, or spices to the dough for extra flavor.

Enjoy your homemade sandwich loaf! Perfect for sandwiches, toast, or simply enjoying with butter.