Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour (or bread flour for extra chewiness) 🌾
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar 🍬
- 1 teaspoon salt 🧂
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast 🍞
- 1 cup warm water (about 110°F/43°C) 💧
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or neutral oil (like vegetable or canola) 🫒
- Optional: 1–2 tablespoons milk powder (for extra softness)
Instructions
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
- In a small bowl, combine the warm water , sugar , and yeast . Stir gently and let sit for 5–10 minutes , until frothy. This indicates the yeast is active.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour , salt , and optional milk powder .
- Add the yeast mixture and oil to the dry ingredients. Stir with a wooden spoon or spatula until a shaggy dough forms. The dough will be sticky but manageable.
Step 3: Let It Rise
- Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free area for 1–1.5 hours , or until doubled in size.
Step 4: Shape the Dough
- Lightly grease an 8×4-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
- Punch down the risen dough and transfer it to a lightly floured surface. Shape it into a log by folding the edges inward and rolling it tightly.
- Place the shaped dough seam-side down into the prepared loaf pan.
Step 5: Second Rise
- Cover the loaf pan with a towel and let the dough rise again for 30–45 minutes , or until it domes slightly above the rim of the pan.
Step 6: Bake the Bread
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) .
- Bake the bread for 25–30 minutes , or until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped on the bottom.
- Optional: Brush the top with a little olive oil or melted butter after baking for a soft crust.
Step 7: Cool and Slice
- Let the bread cool in the pan for 5–10 minutes , then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Tips and Variations
- Add-Ins: Stir in herbs, seeds (like sesame or poppy), or grated cheese for extra flavor.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for bread.
- Whole Wheat Version: Replace up to half the flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier texture.
- Storage: Store the bread in a plastic bag or airtight container at room temperature for up to 3–4 days . Freeze slices for longer storage.
- Make Ahead: Let the dough rise overnight in the fridge for a slow fermentation, which enhances flavor. Proceed with shaping and baking the next day.
Why You’ll Love This Bread
- No Kneading Required: Minimal hands-on effort makes this recipe beginner-friendly.
- Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples, no eggs or butter needed.
- Soft and Fluffy: Perfect for sandwiches, toast, or enjoying plain.
- Customizable: Add-ins and variations let you tailor it to your taste.
- Crowd-Pleasing: Whether for yourself or to share, this bread is sure to impress.
This No-Knead Sandwich Bread is proof that simplicity can yield incredible results. Keep whipping up batches—your coworkers (and your taste buds) will thank you! 🍞