Quick & Easy Everyday Sandwich Loaf
This recipe provides a simple and fast way to bake a delicious sandwich loaf, perfect for everyday use. With minimal rise times, you can enjoy fresh homemade bread quickly.
Equipment
- large mixing bowl
- wooden spoon
- stand mixer (optional)
- plastic wrap
- kitchen towel
- 9x5-inch loaf pan
- instant-read thermometer
- foil (optional)
- wire rack
Ingredients
Dough
- 1 ½ cups Warm Water (105-115°F / 40-46°C)
- 2 ¼ teaspoons Active Dry Yeast (one packet)
- 2 tablespoons Granulated Sugar
- 3 ½ - 4 cups All-Purpose Flour (plus more for dusting)
- 1 ½ teaspoons Salt
- 3 tablespoons Vegetable Oil (or melted butter)
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast, then let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- Add 3 cups of flour, salt, and oil to the yeast mixture, stirring until a shaggy dough forms.
- Turn the dough onto a floured surface and gradually knead in the remaining flour for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Rising & Baking
- Grease the mixing bowl, place the dough in it, and let it rise in a warm place for 15-20 minutes until almost doubled.
- Punch down the dough, flatten into a rectangle, and roll tightly before placing it in a greased 9x5-inch loaf pan.
- Cover the loaf pan and let it rise again for 10-15 minutes; preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) during this time.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 200-210°F (93-99°C).
- Remove the bread from the pan immediately and cool completely on a wire rack before slicing.
Notes
Ensure your yeast is fresh for proper rising. Adjust flour quantity as needed; the dough should be slightly tacky but not overly sticky. For a softer crust, brush with melted butter after baking.