Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 2 ¼ tsp (7g) dry yeast or 25g fresh yeast
• 1 tsp (5g) sugar
• 2/3 cup (160ml) warm water (about 110°F/43°C)
• 4 cups (500g) bread flour
• 1 ½ tsp (7g) salt
• ¾ cup (180ml) milk, lukewarm
• 3 tbsp (45g) unsalted butter, softened

For Baking:

• Olive oil, for brushing

Prep Time, Baking Time, and Total Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• First Rise: 1 hour
• Second Rise: 45 minutes
• Baking Time: 25-30 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 2 hours 30 minutes

Nutrition Facts (Per Slice, Makes 12 Slices)

• Calories: 140 kcal
• Protein: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fat: 3g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 150mg

How to Make Easy Sandwich Bread

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

1. In a small bowl, combine:
   • 2 ¼ tsp (7g) dry yeast or 25g fresh yeast
   • 1 tsp sugar
   • 2/3 cup (160ml) warm water

   Stir gently and let the mixture sit for 5 minutes. This activates the yeast, creating a frothy layer on top. If the mixture doesn’t froth, your yeast may be expired

Step 2: Mix the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl or stand mixer, combine:
   • 4 cups (500g) bread flour
   • 1 ½ tsp (7g) salt
2. Slowly add the activated yeast mixture, followed by ¾ cup (180ml) lukewarm milk and 3 tbsp (45g) softened butter.
3. Knead the dough using a stand mixer with a dough hook or by hand. Knead for about 5-7 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. It should pull away from the sides of the bowl but remain slightly tacky to the touch.

Step 3: First Rise

1. Lightly oil a large bowl and place the dough inside.
2. Cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1 hour, or until the dough has doubled in size.

Step 4: Shape the Dough

1. Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air.
2. Turn the dough out onto a lightly oiled surface. Flatten it into a rectangle, with one side roughly the width of your loaf pan (9×5 inches or 23x13cm).
3. Roll the dough tightly into a log, starting from the shorter side. Pinch the seam to seal.

Step 5: Second Rise

1. Spray a 9×5-inch loaf pan with oil. Place the rolled dough seam-side down into the pan.
2. Cover again with a towel and let it rise for 45-50 minutes. The dough should rise just above the rim of the pan.

Step 6: Bake the Bread

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Brush the top of the dough lightly with olive oil. This helps create a golden, slightly shiny crust.
3. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
4. Remove from the oven and allow the bread to cool in the pan for 5 minutes. Then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Why This Recipe is Timeless

Bread has been a staple of human diets for thousands of years, and for good reason—it’s simple, nourishing, and endlessly versatile. The Easy Sandwich Bread recipe embodies the timeless appeal of homemade bread by focusing on essential ingredients and straightforward techniques.

In a world filled with fast food and processed meals, taking the time to bake your own bread offers a sense of accomplishment and connection to tradition. This loaf’s soft crumb and sturdy crust make it ideal for countless uses, from PB&J sandwiches to gourmet avocado toasts. It’s a recipe that transcends generations, appealing to anyone who values wholesome, homemade food.

Tips for Making Perfect Sandwich Bread

1. Use Warm Liquids: Ensure the water and milk are warm (about 110°F/43°C) to activate the yeast without killing it.
2. Knead Thoroughly: Proper kneading develops gluten, which gives the bread structure and chewiness.
3. Check for Proper Proofing: During the first and second rises, the dough should double in size. Over-proofing can result in a dense loaf.
4. Use a Sharp Knife: For clean slices, allow the bread to cool completely and use a serrated knife.
5. Experiment with Flavors: Add herbs, seeds, or even a swirl of cinnamon to customize your bread.

FAQs

1. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of bread flour?
Yes, you can substitute up to 50% of the bread flour with whole wheat flour. However, the loaf may be denser, so consider adding a tablespoon of vital wheat gluten for better texture.

2. What if I don’t have a stand mixer?
You can knead the dough by hand. It will take about 10 minutes of kneading to achieve a smooth, elastic texture.

3. How do I store homemade bread?
Store the bread in a plastic bag or bread box at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, slice the loaf and freeze the slices in an airtight container.

4. Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Double the ingredients and divide the dough into two loaf pans for two loaves.

5. What should I do if my dough doesn’t rise?
Ensure your yeast is fresh and that the environment is warm enough for proofing. You can place the bowl in a slightly warm oven (turned off) to help the dough rise.

Storage Tips

• Room Temperature: Keep the bread in a sealed plastic bag or bread box for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Slice the loaf before freezing for easy portioning. Store slices in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or toast directly from frozen.
• Reheating: Revive day-old bread by warming it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-10 minutes.

Conclusion

This Easy Sandwich Bread recipe is more than just a recipe—it’s a gateway to the joy of homemade baking. There’s something magical about transforming simple ingredients into a loaf of bread that’s not only delicious but also free of preservatives and tailored to your taste.

Whether you’re making sandwiches for your family, toasting slices for breakfast, or serving it alongside a hearty soup, this bread is as versatile as it is satisfying. The process of kneading, shaping, and baking is a meditative experience, grounding you in the art of home cooking.

So why not give it a try? With this foolproof recipe, you’ll have a loaf that rivals your favorite bakery’s offerings. Once you’ve tasted the freshness and warmth of homemade bread, you’ll never want to go back to store-bought a