How to Make Thrifty Homemade Sandwich Bread in 5 Simple Steps

There’s something truly special about the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through your kitchen, isn’t there? Today, I’m excited to share with you a simple and cost-effective recipe for homemade sandwich bread that’s perfect for your family. This thrifty homemade sandwich bread recipe is not only delicious but also easy to make, requiring just a few ingredients and some patience. Whether you’re a busy mom looking for quick family dinners or someone who loves the comfort of homemade bread, this recipe is a game-changer. Plus, it’s a great way to incorporate some easy pasta recipes into your weeknight dinner ideas!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Only 6 simple ingredients needed
• Perfect for sandwiches, toast, or just snacking
• Cost-effective and homemade
• Easy to customize with your favorite add-ins
• Soft and fresh, just like bakery bread

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious homemade sandwich bread:

• 1 cup hot water
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 2-3/4 teaspoon yeast (1 packet + 1/2 teaspoon)
• 3 cups all-purpose flour or bread flour
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1-1/2 teaspoons salt

Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.

How to Make the Recipe

Let’s dive into the simple steps to make this homemade sandwich bread:

1. Activate the Yeast: Start by mixing together the hot water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 10 minutes to allow the yeast to bloom. This step is crucial for the dough to rise properly.
2. Mix the Dough: Pour the yeast mixture into a stand mixer or a large bowl. Add the vegetable oil, salt, and flour one cup at a time. Use the dough hook attachment to mix until the dough comes together. If you don’t have a stand mixer, you can also use a hand mixer or knead the dough by hand.
3. Knead the Dough: Continue mixing for a few more minutes until the dough clings to the bread hook and doesn’t stick to the bowl. This ensures the dough is well-kneaded and ready for rising.
4. First Rise: Place the dough ball in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a draft-free area for about 1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size. For a quicker rise, you can use the yogurt setting on your Instant Pot or other proofing methods.
5. Shape the Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and shape it into an oval loaf. Place it in a greased loaf pan, cover it loosely with plastic wrap, and let it rise again for about an hour, or until it’s almost doubled in size.
6. Bake the Bread: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Bake the bread for about 25 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 190 degrees F. Let it cool in the pan for a few minutes before slicing.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Here are some helpful tips to ensure your homemade sandwich bread turns out perfectly:

• Use warm water, but not scalding hot, to activate the yeast properly.
• If you’re short on time, consider using a rapid rise yeast or the Instant Pot method to speed up the proofing process.
• Don’t overmix the dough, as it can make the bread dense.
• Let the bread cool completely before slicing to ensure it stays soft and doesn’t crumble.

How to Serve

This homemade sandwich bread is incredibly versatile. Here are a few ideas for how to enjoy it:

• Use it for sandwiches, whether it’s for school lunches or quick family dinners.
• Toast it and top with butter, jam, or avocado for a simple breakfast.
• Serve it alongside soups or salads for a hearty meal.
• Try it with some of our other favorite recipes, like The Best Pasta Salad Recipe or The Best Biscuits and Gravy Breakfast Casserole.

Make Ahead and Storage

Homemade bread is best served fresh, but you can also store it for later use:

• Store cooled bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Freeze the bread for up to 2 months and thaw it at room temperature or in the fridge when you’re ready to use it.

There you have it—a simple, thrifty recipe for homemade sandwich bread that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner or just because, this bread is sure to become a family favorite. Happy baking!