Softest Sandwich Bread Recipe

There’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through your home. Whether you’re making sandwiches, toast, or just enjoying a slice with butter, this homemade sandwich bread recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Let’s dive into the delicious world of homemade bread!

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Ingredient Breakdown for Soft Sandwich Bread:

1. Warm Water (100-110°F):

• Provides the liquid base for activating the yeast.

• Warm water helps activate the yeast, aiding in the rising of the dough.

2. Honey:

• Adds sweetness to the bread without overpowering the flavor.

• Helps feed the yeast, promoting fermentation and a soft, tender crumb.

• Contributes to the golden color of the bread crust when baked.

3. Active Dry Yeast:

• Acts as the leavening agent, causing the dough to rise.

• Requires activation in warm water before adding to the dough mixture.

• Provides the characteristic airy texture and structure to the bread.

4. Butter:

• Adds richness and flavor to the dough.

• Helps tenderize the bread and create a soft texture.

5. Egg;

• Acts as a binding agent, helping to hold the dough together.

• Contributes to the structure and stability of the bread.

• Adds richness and a slightly eggy flavor to the final product.

6. Salt:

• Enhances the flavor of the bread by balancing the sweetness.

• Helps strengthen the gluten structure, improving the texture and rise of the bread.

• Regulates yeast activity, controlling the fermentation process.

7. Bread Flour:

• Contains a higher protein content than all-purpose flour, resulting in a stronger gluten network.

• Provides structure and support to the bread, allowing it to rise properly.

• Produces a chewy and tender crumb.

Ingredients

Before we get started, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 3/4 cups warm water (100-110°F)

• 1/4 cup honey or sugar

• 1 tablespoon active dry yeast

• 1/4 cup butter, melted

• 1 egg

• 2 1/2 teaspoons salt

• 4-5 cups bread flour

Instructions

1. Activate the Yeast

   • In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine 1 3/4 cups of warm water and 1/4 cup of honey or sugar. Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of active dry yeast over the mixture and let it sit for about 5 minutes until foamy. This step ensures that the yeast is alive and ready to help your bread rise.

2. Mix the Ingredients

   • Add 1/4 cup melted butter, 1 egg, 2 1/2 teaspoons salt, and 2 cups of bread flour to the yeast mixture. Mix until well combined.

3. Form the Dough

   • Add 2 more cups of flour, one cup at a time. Mix well after each addition until a dough forms. You want a soft, slightly sticky dough, but not sticky enough to stick to your fingers. If the dough is too sticky, add the last cup of flour one tablespoon at a time.

4. Knead the Dough

   • Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes on medium speed if using a stand mixer, or by hand on a floured surface until it becomes smooth and elastic.

5. First Rise

   • Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

6. Shape the Dough

   • Once the dough has doubled in size, punch it down to release the air. Divide it in half and roll out each half into a rectangle about 9×13 inches. Roll up each rectangle tightly into a log, pinching the seams to seal.

7. Second Rise

   • Place your dough logs into greased 9×5-inch loaf pans, seam side down. Cover with a clean kitchen towel and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes, until the dough has just risen over the rim of the pan.

8. Bake the Bread

   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once the dough has risen, bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown and baked through.

9. Cool the Bread

   • Remove the loaves from the oven and let them cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy the fresh, warm bread with your favorite toppings or use it for sandwiches.

Conclusion

Making homemade bread can be a rewarding experience that fills your kitchen with warmth and delicious aromas. This sandwich bread recipe is versatile and perfect for everyday use. With a few simple ingredients and a bit of patience, you’ll have fresh, homemade bread that’s far superior to store-bought. Happy baking!

The Recipe: