There’s something special about homemade bread. The aroma that fills the kitchen, the soft, fluffy texture, and the simple joy of slicing into a freshly baked loaf. For families, having a reliable sandwich loaf recipe is essential—one that’s easy to make, full of wholesome ingredients, and, most importantly, loved by kids. This sandwich loaf ticks all the boxes!
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Why Make Your Own Bread?
Store-bought bread can often contain preservatives and additives that aren’t always the best for little ones. By baking your own, you control what goes into the loaf, making it a healthier choice for your family. Plus, baking bread is a fun and educational activity to enjoy with kids, teaching them about ingredients, measurements, and patience (thanks to rising times!).
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Ingredients You’ll Need
- 500g of plain flour (bread flour works best)
- 2 large eggs
- 50g unsalted butter, melted
- 2 teaspoons of salt
- 2 tablespoons of sugar
- 2 teaspoons of active dry yeast
- 300ml of warm water (not too hot, as it could kill the yeast)
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Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Yeast Mixture:
In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This step ensures that your yeast is active and ready to work its magic on the dough.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the flour and salt. Stir to combine, making sure the salt is evenly distributed.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs and melted butter together. Once the yeast mixture is frothy, add it to the dry ingredients, followed by the egg and butter mixture.
4. Form the Dough:
Mix everything together until a dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time. If it’s too dry, add a bit more water, one tablespoon at a time.
5. Knead the Dough:
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead it for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. You can also use a stand mixer with a dough hook to make this step easier.
6. First Rise:
Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm spot for 1-1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
7. Shape the Loaf:
Once risen, punch down the dough to release any air bubbles. Turn it out onto a floured surface and shape it into a loaf. Place the dough into a greased loaf tin, making sure it fits snugly.
8. Second Rise:
Cover the loaf tin with a towel and let the dough rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until it has doubled in size.
9. Bake the Bread:
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake the loaf for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped.
10. Cool and Enjoy:
Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the tin for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, slice and serve!
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Tips for Making the Best Sandwich Loaf
1. Use Bread Flour for a Chewy Texture: Bread flour contains more protein, which helps create a chewy, airy loaf that’s perfect for sandwiches.
2. Be Patient with Rising Times: Letting the dough rise fully ensures a light, fluffy bread.
3. Get Creative: Add a handful of seeds or oats to the dough for a more nutritious loaf, or brush the top with a little melted butter for a softer crust.
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Kid-Friendly Serving Ideas
1. Classic Sandwiches: Fill with ham, cheese, or your child’s favourite spread.
2. French Toast: This loaf makes the perfect base for a special weekend breakfast.
3. Simple Toast with Butter and Jam: Sometimes the simplest things are the best!
Making a homemade sandwich loaf is not just about the end product; it’s also about the experience of baking with your family. Kids love getting involved in the kitchen, and bread-making is a hands-on activity that sparks curiosity. Enjoy x
Greta