This classic sandwich bread recipe from Julia Child is known for its soft texture and rich flavor. Made with simple ingredients, this bread is perfect for sandwiches, toast, or enjoying with butter.
The recipe involves basic bread-making techniques, making it accessible for both beginners and experienced bakers. With a little patience, you can create a loaf that rivals any bakery.
Why Homemade Bread is Worth the Effort
Creating your own sandwich bread at home offers a rewarding experience that goes beyond just the taste. The aroma of freshly baked bread fills your kitchen, creating an inviting atmosphere.
There’s something special about slicing into a warm loaf, revealing its fluffy interior. Each bite is a reminder of the care and time invested in the process.
Key Ingredients for Success
The foundation of a great sandwich bread lies in its ingredients. All-purpose flour, salt, sugar, active dry yeast, warm water, and butter come together to create a harmonious blend.
Each component plays a vital role: the flour provides structure, while the yeast helps the dough rise, resulting in a light and airy texture. Butter adds richness, enhancing the flavor of the final product.
The Art of Kneading
Kneading is a crucial step in bread-making that develops gluten, which gives the bread its structure. A good knead should last about 10 minutes, resulting in a smooth and elastic dough.
Don’t rush this process; it’s essential for achieving that perfect fluffy crumb. The tactile experience of kneading can be quite satisfying, connecting you to the age-old tradition of bread-making.
Rising to the Occasion
Allowing the dough to rise is where the magic happens. The first rise, or fermentation, is vital for flavor development and texture.
Covering the dough and letting it rest in a warm place encourages the yeast to work its magic, doubling the size of the dough. Patience during this stage is key to achieving a light loaf.
Shaping and Second Rise
Once the dough has risen, it’s time to shape it into a loaf. This step not only forms the bread but also helps to create surface tension, which contributes to a better rise in the oven.
The second rise is equally important, allowing the shaped loaf to puff up before baking. This final resting period ensures a soft, airy texture in the finished product.
Baking and Enjoying Your Bread
Preheating the oven is essential for a good bake. A hot oven helps the bread rise quickly, creating that desirable crust.
Once baked to a golden brown, the loaf should sound hollow when tapped. Allowing it to cool before slicing enhances the texture, making it easier to cut.
Spread a pat of butter on a warm slice, and enjoy the fruits of your labor. Homemade sandwich bread is perfect for sandwiches, toast, or simply enjoying with a bit of butter.
Homemade Sandwich Bread Recipe
This sandwich bread features a tender crumb and a golden crust, achieved through careful kneading and proofing. The recipe takes about 3 hours from start to finish and yields one loaf.
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon milk (optional, for brushing)
Instructions
- Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast on top and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and melted butter. Stir until a dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Shape the Loaf: Punch down the dough and transfer it to a floured surface. Shape it into a loaf and place it in a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- Second Rise: Cover the loaf with a cloth and let it rise again for about 30-45 minutes until it rises above the rim of the pan.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake: Brush the top of the loaf with milk if desired. Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
- Cool: Remove the bread from the pan and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours
- Servings: 12 slices
- Calories: 120kcal
- Fat: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 22g