Soft and Fluffy Sandwich Bread Recipe
This Soft and Fluffy Sandwich Bread recipe delivers a tender, airy loaf perfect for sandwiches or toast. Made with simple ingredients like yeast, honey, butter, milk, and flour, this homemade bread has a slightly sweet flavor and soft crumb. The dough is kneaded, allowed to rise twice, then baked to golden perfection. Ideal for home bakers looking to create fresh bread with a comforting texture and classic taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 55 minutes
- Yield: 2 loaves (8-10 slices per loaf) 1x
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
Yeast Mixture
- 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
- 2 tbsp honey (or sugar)
- 1/4 cup water (warmed)
Main Dough
- 2 cups milk
- 5 tbsp butter
- 1 large egg
- 1 1/2 tsp salt
- 6 cups all-purpose flour (divided: 5 cups plus extra for kneading)
Instructions
- Activate the yeast: Combine the warmed 1/4 cup water with the yeast and honey (or sugar). Let the mixture sit until it becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is active. If it does not foam, the yeast is inactive and should not be used.
- Mix dough ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the foamy yeast mixture, milk, melted butter, egg, salt, and 5 cups of flour. Stir the ingredients together, gradually adding additional flour as needed until the dough pulls away from the sides of the bowl.
- Knead the dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead it for 7-10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. Shape the dough into a ball.
- First rise: Place the dough ball into a greased bowl, cover it with a clean cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Shape the loaves: Punch down the risen dough and place it on a counter. Divide it into two equal portions. Flatten each portion into a rectangle, then roll them into logs. Place each log into a greased loaf pan.
- Second rise: Cover the loaf pans and let the dough rise again for about 1 hour, until the dough doubles in size and reaches the top of the pan.
- Bake the bread: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the loaves for 35-40 minutes until golden brown on top and fully cooked. Optionally, brush the tops with extra butter right after baking for a soft, flavorful crust.
Notes
- Ensure your yeast is fresh and properly activated for a good rise.
- Adjust flour quantity as needed; dough should be soft but not sticky.
- Use warm (not hot) water and milk to activate yeast and encourage rising.
- Butter the loaf pans to prevent sticking and help with crust color.
- Let bread cool slightly before slicing to maintain structure and softness.
Keywords: soft sandwich bread, fluffy bread, homemade bread recipe, yeast bread, easy sandwich bread, breakfast bread
