Delicious Homemade Sandwich Bread Recipe
Updated: Oct 11
Ingredients for Homemade Bread:
2 cups warm water
1 tablespoon Fleischmann's instant yeast
1/4 cup honey
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 teaspoons salt
4 1/2 cups bread flour
4 tablespoons salted butter
Feel free to adjust the ingredients for your homemade bread. You can use avocado oil or butter in your mixture.
Step-by-Step Directions:
1. Prepare the Yeast Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, add two cups of warm water, yeast, and honey. Mix for a few seconds, then let it rest for 10-15 minutes. Once you see it start to bubble and foam, you know it’s ready!
2. Add Oil and Salt
Next, add olive oil and salt to the mixture. Attach the kneader and mix on medium speed.
3. Incorporate the Flour
Gradually mix in the flour until a dough ball forms.
4. Knead the Dough
Knead the dough for 5 to 8 minutes, or until it pulls away from the sides of the bowl.
5. Form the Dough Ball
Turn off the mixer and grease your hands with oil. Gently form the dough into a nice ball.
6. Proof the Dough
Grease your bowl, place the dough ball inside, and cover it with a damp kitchen towel. Let it proof for an hour. I like to proof mine inside the oven.
7. Punch Down the Dough
After an hour, punch the dough ball down to release the air.
8. Divide the Dough
Cut the dough in half. You can eyeball it or use a scale for accuracy.
9. Shape the Dough
Stretch each dough ball and use your hand to slap it. This helps prevent air bubbles. Form the dough into a rectangular shape.
10. Prepare the Bread Pans
Grease your bread pans to prevent sticking.
11. Roll the Dough
Roll each piece of dough into a log and carefully place it seam-side down in the pan. Roll from the shorter side for the best shape.
12. Second Proofing
Cover the pans and let the dough proof for 30 more minutes.
13. Preheat the Oven
While the dough is proofing, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
14. Bake the Bread
Bake the bread for 35-40 minutes.
15. Brush with Butter
Once baked, melt some butter and brush it onto the top of the bread for a delicious finish.
16. Cool the Bread
Let the bread rest in the pans for 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a cooling rack.
17. Enjoy Your Homemade Bread!
Slice it up and enjoy your delicious homemade bread!
Tips for Perfect Homemade Bread
Use Fresh Ingredients: Always check the expiration date on your yeast. Fresh yeast makes a big difference in how well it rises.
Temperature Matters: The water should be warm, not hot. Aim for about 110°F (43°C) to activate the yeast without killing it.
Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add herbs, garlic, or cheese to your dough for a twist.
Baking bread can be fun and rewarding. With practice, you’ll develop your own techniques and flavors. Remember, the key is to enjoy the process. Happy baking!
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