Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 ½ cups warm water (about 110°F or 43°C)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for a richer flavor)
Instructions
1. Activate the Yeast:
In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy
2. Mix Ingredients:
Stir in melted butter and salt until combined
3. Incorporate Flour:
Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing until a soft dough forms. Adjust flour as needed.
4. Knead the Dough:
Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. First Rise:
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
6. Shape the Loaf:
Punch down the dough to release air, shape it into a loaf, and place it in a greased loaf pan.
7. Second Rise:
Cover the loaf and let it rise again for 30 minutes.
8. Bake the Bread:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped
9. Cool:
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Notes
- For added nutrition, replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour.
- Ensure the water temperature is warm but not hot to avoid killing the yeast.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 120kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
Keywords: Sandwich bread recipe, Homemade sandwich bread, How to make sandwich bread, Soft bread recipe