Prep Time: 15 minutes
Resting Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Bake Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes
Difficulty Level: Easy
Recipe Yield: 1 loaf (10–12 slices)
Cuisine: American
Course: Bread
Ingredients
- 3½ cups (420g) all-purpose flour or bread flour
- 1½ teaspoons salt
- 2 teaspoons instant yeast
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1¼ cups (300ml) warm water (about 105–110°F / 40–43°C)
- ¼ cup (60ml) warm milk
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for greasing the bowl)
Optional:
- Melted butter for brushing the top after baking.
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- 9×5-inch loaf pan
- Clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap
- Cooling rack
Instructions
Step 1: Mix the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, sugar, and instant yeast. Stir until everything is evenly distributed.
Pour in the warm water, warm milk, and melted butter. Mix with a wooden spoon until no dry flour remains. The dough will look sticky and shaggy, which is exactly what you want. There is no need to knead.
Step 2: First Rise
Lightly grease a clean bowl with vegetable oil and transfer the dough into it. Cover with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel.
Place the bowl in a warm area and allow the dough to rise for about 2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
Step 3: Shape the Dough
Lightly flour your work surface. Gently turn the dough out onto the counter.
Using lightly floured hands, fold the edges toward the center a few times to create a smooth ball. Shape it into a log that fits your loaf pan.
Avoid pressing out all of the air. Gentle handling helps produce a soft, airy loaf.
Step 4: Second Rise
Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
Place the shaped dough into the pan and cover loosely with a towel.
Allow it to rise for another 30 minutes, or until it has risen about 1 inch above the rim of the pan.
Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 5: Bake
Bake the bread for 30–35 minutes until the top is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped.
If using an instant-read thermometer, the internal temperature should reach about 190–200°F (88–93°C).
Step 6: Cool
Remove the bread from the oven and let it sit in the pan for 5 minutes.
Transfer it to a cooling rack and allow it to cool completely before slicing. This helps the crumb set properly and prevents the bread from becoming gummy.
For an extra-soft crust, brush the top with melted butter while the loaf is still warm.
Tips for Success
- Use fresh yeast for the best rise.
- Warm liquids should be warm, not hot, as excessive heat can kill the yeast.
- Bread flour creates a slightly chewier texture, while all-purpose flour makes a softer loaf.
- Avoid adding too much flour. Sticky dough produces softer bread.
- Let the bread cool completely before slicing to maintain its structure.
Variations
Honey Sandwich Bread
Replace the sugar with two tablespoons of honey for a slightly sweeter loaf.
Whole Wheat Version
Substitute one cup of all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber and a hearty flavor.
Herb Bread
Mix in one tablespoon of dried Italian herbs for a savory twist that’s perfect alongside soups and pasta.
Seeded Bread
Sprinkle sesame seeds, oats, or sunflower seeds over the top before baking for added texture.
Serving Suggestions
This homemade sandwich bread is perfect for:
- Peanut butter and jelly sandwiches
- Turkey or chicken sandwiches
- French toast
- Avocado toast
- Grilled cheese
- Breakfast toast with butter and jam
- Homemade garlic bread
Storage
Store the cooled loaf in an airtight container or bread bag at room temperature for up to 4 days.
For longer storage, freeze individual slices in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or toast directly from frozen.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my dough so sticky?
A sticky dough is normal and helps create a soft texture. Resist adding extra flour unless the dough is impossible to handle.
Can I make this recipe without milk?
Yes. Replace the milk with an equal amount of warm water.
Can I use active dry yeast?
Yes. Dissolve the yeast in the warm water with the sugar and let it sit for 5–10 minutes before mixing with the remaining ingredients.
Why didn’t my bread rise?
Old yeast, cold temperatures, or water that is too hot can prevent the dough from rising properly.
Nutrition Information
Per Slice (Based on 12 Slices)
- Calories: 165
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Cholesterol: 6mg
- Sodium: 290mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
- Calcium: 25mg
- Iron: 2mg