Simply Sandwich Bread

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Have you ever craved that perfect, fluffy, golden loaf of sandwich bread that slices like a dream and holds up to any filling? Whether you’re making a gooey grilled cheese, a classic BLT, or just craving thick-cut toast with butter, this Simply Sandwich Bread delivers every single time.

Soft, slightly sweet, and incredibly versatile, this bread has that tender crumb and pillowy texture you typically only find in bakery loaves. But guess what? You can bake it at home with zero intimidation. This recipe is a reliable staple for beginners and seasoned bakers alike, producing consistently beautiful loaves that are as good fresh out of the oven as they are toasted the next morning.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To create a loaf as supple and structured as this, having the right tools on hand is key. You’ll want to gather a stand mixer with a dough hook, which makes kneading efficient and thorough. If you’re kneading by hand, a sturdy wooden spoon and clean countertop will suffice, though it takes a bit more effort.

A 9×5-inch loaf pan gives the bread its traditional sandwich shape, allowing it to rise tall with perfectly straight sides. A kitchen scale helps ensure your flour measurement is precise—a big deal in bread baking. Lastly, a digital thermometer helps you know when your bread is fully baked inside (look for around 190°F in the center).

Having a damp kitchen towel for covering your dough during proofing helps maintain the moisture, ensuring a soft rise, and a bench scraper makes shaping the dough much smoother.

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Ingredients for the Simply Sandwich Bread

• All-purpose flour: The base of our bread, providing structure and softness. Make sure to use unbleached for the best texture.
• Milk: Adds richness and helps give that tender crumb. Whole milk is preferred, but 2% works too.
• Water: Helps hydrate the dough. Lukewarm is best to activate the yeast.
• Unsalted butter: For flavor and softness. It melts into the dough, making it supple.
• Sugar: Just a hint to feed the yeast and lightly sweeten the loaf.
• Salt: Essential to balance the flavors and control yeast activity.
• Instant yeast: The driving force for rise and airiness. Instant yeast makes it easy to mix directly into the flour.

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How To Make the Simply Sandwich Bread

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Warm the milk and water until lukewarm (about 100-110°F). Mix in the sugar and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.

Step 2: Form the Dough

Add the yeast mixture to a stand mixer bowl. Mix in flour and salt, then softened butter. Use the dough hook on low until combined, then knead for 6–8 minutes until smooth and elastic. If kneading by hand, work it on a floured surface for about 10 minutes.

Step 3: First Rise

Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1–2 hours.

Step 4: Shape the Dough

Punch down the dough and transfer it to a lightly floured surface. Flatten gently and shape into a loaf, tucking edges under for a smooth top.

Step 5: Second Rise

Place into a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan. Cover and let it rise again until the top is about 1 inch above the rim, about 45 minutes to 1 hour.

Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection

Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30–35 minutes, until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 190°F. Let cool before slicing.

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How to Serve and Store This Bread

Fresh from the oven, this bread is heavenly with just a swipe of butter. It’s fantastic toasted, ideal for sandwiches, and perfect as a side to hearty soups.

To store, wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap or a bread bag and keep at room temperature for up to 4 days. For longer storage, slice and freeze—just toast directly from frozen for easy breakfasts or sandwiches.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use bread flour instead of all-purpose?

Yes! Bread flour will give a slightly chewier texture and more structure. It’s a great option if you have it on hand.

Can I make this dough ahead?

You can refrigerate the dough after the first rise and bake it the next day. Let it come to room temperature before shaping and baking.

Can I use active dry yeast?

Absolutely. Just dissolve it in the warm milk and water first and wait for it to bloom (foam) before proceeding.

Why is my bread dense?

Over-measuring flour or under-kneading the dough can lead to dense bread. Use a kitchen scale and knead until smooth and elastic.

How can I make it dairy-free?

Swap milk with almond or oat milk, and use a plant-based butter alternative. The texture may vary slightly but still delicious.

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Want More Bread Recipes?

If homemade bread is your comfort zone, don’t miss these LadyPlate favorites:

Try the classic charm of Italian Ricotta Easter Bread, ideal for holiday spreads and brunches. Or for a soft, sweet bite, the Cinnamon Donut Bread is a dreamy option for morning coffee.

Feeling savory? Pair your sandwich bread with our hearty Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup for a classic soup-and-bread duo.

Or go all in with loaded lunch ideas like Chopped Chicken Bacon Ranch Sub, where this bread would shine as a base.

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Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

You can save this to your baking boards for next time. Just click the Pin button.

If you make it, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Did you toast it? Make French toast? Let me know in the comments. I’m always excited to see what you do with these staples.

And if you’re looking for daily baking inspiration, come hang out on my Pinterest – LadyPlate. I post new recipes every week!

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