sandwich bread

Homemade Sandwich Bread Recipe

Ingredients:

• 3 1/2 cups (440g) all-purpose flour (or bread flour)
• 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (240ml) warm water (around 110°F/45°C)
• 1/2 cup (120ml) warm milk (around 110°F/45°C)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 1 tablespoon melted butter (for brushing)

Instructions:

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

1. In a small bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy (this indicates the yeast is active).

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
2. Add the activated yeast mixture, warm milk, and softened butter to the flour mixture. Mix with a wooden spoon or in a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment until a sticky dough forms.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

1. Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead by hand for about 8-10 minutes (or 5-6 minutes in the stand mixer) until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
2. The dough should be soft but not too sticky. If it’s too sticky, add a bit more flour, 1 tablespoon at a time, until it reaches the right consistency.

Step 4: First Rise

1. Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap.
2. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

Step 5: Shape the Loaf

1. Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air.
2. On a lightly floured surface, shape the dough into a rectangle, then fold it into a loaf shape by rolling it up tightly from the short side.
3. Pinch the seams and ends to seal and place the dough seam-side down into a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan.

Step 6: Second Rise

1. Cover the loaf with a kitchen towel and let it rise again in a warm place for 30-45 minutes, or until the dough has risen about 1 inch above the edge of the pan.

Step 7: Preheat the Oven

1. While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 8: Bake the Bread

1. Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped.
2. If the top is browning too quickly, you can cover it loosely with aluminum foil during the last 10-15 minutes of baking.

Step 9: Cool and Serve

1. Remove the bread from the oven and brush the top with melted butter for a soft, flavorful crust.
2. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Tips:

• Check for Doneness: The internal temperature of the bread should reach about 190°F (88°C) when fully baked.
• Storing: Once cooled, store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Variations: For a richer bread, you can substitute some or all of the water with milk. You can also mix in 1 tablespoon of honey for a slight sweetness.

Cooking Time:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
• Rising Time: 1.5 to 2 hours
• Total Time: ~2.5 to 3 hours

Nutritional Information (per slice, serves 12):

• Calories: ~170 kcal
• Protein: ~4g
• Fat: ~3g
• Carbohydrates: ~30g
• Fiber: ~1g

This Homemade Sandwich Bread is soft and fluffy, perfect for sandwiches, toast, or simply enjoying with butter. It’s easy to make and adds a personal touch to any meal!