Basic Sandwich Bread Recipe

Mak Erot

3 min read

·

Apr 10, 2025

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Basic Sandwich Bread Recipe: A Simple Guide to Homemade Goodness

Are you tired of store-bought bread that lacks flavor and freshness? Do you dream of that warm, crusty, perfectly soft interior of a homemade loaf? Then you've come to the right place! This basic sandwich bread recipe is your gateway to baking delicious bread from scratch, even if you're a complete beginner. Let's get started!

Ingredients You'll Need:

This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it perfect for even the most novice bakers.

• 1 cup warm water (105-115°F): This is crucial for activating the yeast. Too hot, and you'll kill it; too cold, and it won't activate properly.
• 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast: The heart of your bread, responsible for the rise.
• 1 tablespoon sugar: Provides food for the yeast and helps with browning.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavor.
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and tenderness to the crumb.
• 3 ½ - 4 cups all-purpose flour: The structure of your bread. You may need slightly more or less depending on your flour and environment.
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten: Adds moisture and richness.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Getting Started: Activating the Yeast

1. Bloom the yeast: In a large bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy. This confirms your yeast is alive and kicking! If it doesn't foam, your yeast might be dead, and you'll need a fresh batch.

Mixing the Dough:

2. Add wet ingredients: Add the softened butter and beaten egg to the yeast mixture. Mix well to combine.

3. Incorporate dry ingredients: Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing with a wooden spoon or your hands until a shaggy dough forms.

4. Kneading the dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic. If using a stand mixer, knead with the dough hook attachment for about 5 minutes.

First Rise (Bulk Fermentation):

5. First proof: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

Shaping and Second Rise (Proofing):

6. Punch down the dough: Gently punch down the dough to release the air.

7. Shape the loaf: Shape the dough into a loaf and place it in a greased 9x5 inch loaf pan.

8. Second proof: Cover the loaf pan with plastic wrap and let rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until almost doubled in size.

Baking Your Bread:

9. Preheat & bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 200°F (93°C). A wooden skewer inserted into the center should come out clean.

10. Cool completely: Remove the bread from the pan and let it cool completely on a wire rack before slicing and serving. This prevents a gummy interior.

Tips for Success:

• Use a kitchen scale: For the most consistent results, use a kitchen scale to measure your ingredients.
• Don't over-knead: Over-kneading can result in a tough bread.
• Check for doneness: Use a thermometer to ensure your bread is fully baked.
• Experiment with flavors: Add herbs, spices, or seeds to customize your bread.

Serving Suggestions:

Your freshly baked sandwich bread is incredibly versatile! Enjoy it with your favorite fillings, as toast with butter and jam, or alongside soups and stews.

This basic recipe provides a solid foundation for your bread-baking journey. Practice makes perfect, so don't be discouraged if your first loaf isn't perfect. With a little patience and practice, you'll be amazed at the delicious and satisfying results you can achieve at home! Happy baking!