Description
This soft and fluffy one-loaf white sandwich bread is easy to make at home, uses simple ingredients, and delivers better flavor, texture, and freshness than store-bought bread.
Ingredients
3 cups all-purpose or bread flour
2¼ teaspoons instant or active dry yeast
1 tablespoon sugar
1¼ teaspoons salt
1 cup warm milk (or water), about 110°F
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened (or oil)
Instructions
1. In a small bowl, mix warm milk (or water) with 1 teaspoon of sugar and yeast. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until bubbly.
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, remaining sugar, and salt. Mix well.
3. Add the yeast mixture and softened butter to the dry ingredients. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 8–10 minutes by hand or 5–7 minutes in a stand mixer until smooth and elastic.
5. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for 1–2 hours until doubled.
6. Punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf. Place into a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan.
7. Cover and let it rise again for 30–45 minutes, until the dough is about 1 inch above the pan rim.
8. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the bread for 25–30 minutes, until golden and the internal temp reaches 190°F.
9. Remove from oven and brush with melted butter for a soft crust. Let cool before slicing.
Notes
Use bread flour for a chewier texture, or all-purpose flour for a softer crumb.
If your kitchen is cool, rise the dough in a slightly warm (but turned-off) oven.
Brush with butter immediately after baking for a tender crust.
Customize with honey, herbs, cheese, or oats for delicious variations.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Baking
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American