Description
This recipe for homemade white sandwich bread features a soft, tender crumb and a vibrant herb swirl. It’s perfect for everyday lunches, toast, or as a foundation for family meals.
Ingredients
- 4 cups strong white bread flour
- 1.25 cups warm milk (100-110F)
- 2.25 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1.5 teaspoons fine sea salt
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- 0.5 cup fresh flat-leaf parsley, finely chopped
- 0.25 cup fresh chives, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons mixed seeds (e.g., white sesame, black sesame, poppy, nigella)
Instructions
- Activate the Yeast: Combine warm milk, yeast, and sugar in a large bowl. Let stand 5-10 minutes until foamy, showing the yeast is active.
- Mix the Dough: Add bread flour and salt to the yeast mixture. Pour in cooled melted butter. Mix with a spoon until a shaggy dough forms.
- Knead Until Smooth: Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead 8-10 minutes until smooth, elastic, and no longer sticky; it should spring back when poked.
- First Rise: Grease a clean bowl with butter. Place dough, turn to coat, cover. Let rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1.5 hours, until doubled in size.
- Shape the Loaf: Punch down dough. Prepare herb paste by combining parsley, chives, powders, and olive oil. Divide dough (60 percent plain, 40 percent for herb). Knead herb paste into the smaller portion until green. Roll plain dough (30x20cm) and herb dough (28x18cm). Layer the doughs, roll into a log, and pinch seams.
- Second Rise: Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan. Place dough log seam-side down. Cover and let rise for 45-60 minutes, until 1 inch above the rim.
- Bake to Perfection: Preheat oven to 375F. Brush risen loaf with milk, sprinkle seeds (press gently). Bake 30-35 minutes until golden brown and sounds hollow.
- Cool Completely: Remove from pan to a wire rack. Cool completely for 1-2 hours before slicing.
Notes
For a purer taste, consider using organic unbleached strong bread flour. Plant-based butters and milks can offer great alternatives for those avoiding dairy. Always ensure your active dry yeast is fresh for a reliable rise. Using fresh herbs is key for vibrant color and robust taste. Cool the loaf completely before slicing for optimal texture.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: General
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 180 calories
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 250 mg
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 15 mg