Home
Recipes
Breads
Sandwich Bread
Classic White Sandwich Bread Recipe

Classic White Sandwich Bread Recipe

Learn how to make the best homemade Classic White Sandwich Bread with this easy baking recipe. This foolproof method produces a perfectly soft, fluffy loaf every time. Master the technique of kneading, proofing, and baking for bakery-quality sandwich bread that's far superior to store-bought.
Difficulty:
Beginner
Prep Time:
25 mins
Cook Time:
35 mins
Serves:
1 loaf (12 slices)
An overhead shot of a perfectly baked loaf of Classic White Sandwich Bread with its golden-brown domed top, captured in soft natural light. A cross-section view reveals the bread's even, tender crumb structure with tiny air pockets throughout. Slices are arranged in a gentle fan on a worn wooden cutting board, showcasing the bread's cloud-like texture against rustic linen. A pat of melting butter glistens on one slice, with honey drizzling from a wooden dipper nearby. The warm tones of the crust contrast beautifully with the pure white interior, while scattered wheat stalks and a dusting of flour add context to this timeless kitchen staple.

Ingredients

<ul class="ingredients-main-list"><li class="ingredients-single-item">500g bread flour (strong white flour)</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">7g instant dry yeast (one sachet)</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">10g salt</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">15g sugar</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">30g unsalted butter, softened</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">300ml lukewarm water (around 37°C)</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">15ml vegetable oil (for greasing)</li></ul>

Equipment

<ul class="equipment-main-list"><li class="equipment-single-item">23 x 13cm (9 x 5 inch) loaf tin</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Stand mixer with dough hook (optional)</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Digital kitchen thermometer</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Dough scraper</li></ul>

Directions

<ol class="no-list-style"><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 1</h4>Begin by combining the bread flour, instant yeast, salt, and sugar in a large mixing bowl. Keep the salt and yeast on opposite sides of the bowl initially, as direct contact with salt can inhibit yeast activity. Make a well in the center of your dry ingredients.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 2</h4>Add the softened butter and pour in about two-thirds of the lukewarm water. Using your fingers or a wooden spoon, start combining the ingredients, gradually adding more water until all the flour is incorporated and you have a slightly sticky dough. You may not need all the water, or you might need a touch more – the exact amount depends on your flour's absorption rate.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 3</h4>Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. This develops the gluten structure that will give your bread its wonderful texture. The dough should pass the "windowpane test" – when a small piece is stretched between your fingers, it should become thin enough to see light through without tearing.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 4</h4>Form the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly oiled bowl. Cover with a damp clean cloth or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm, draft-free spot until doubled in size, about 1-1.5 hours. The ideal temperature for rising is around 24-27°C (75-80°F).</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 5</h4>Once risen, gently punch down the dough to release air bubbles. Turn it onto a lightly floured surface and flatten into a rough rectangle about the width of your loaf tin. Fold the longer sides into the center like an envelope, then roll the dough tightly from one short end to form a log shape. Pinch the seam closed to seal.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 6</h4>Place the shaped dough seam-side down in a greased loaf tin. Cover again and allow to rise for another 45-60 minutes until the dough has crowned about 2.5cm (1 inch) above the rim of the tin. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F).</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 7</h4>When the dough has risen properly, bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes until golden brown on top. The bread is done when it sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom, or when an instant-read thermometer inserted into the center registers 90-95°C (195-205°F).</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 8</h4>Remove the bread from the oven and turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. This cooling period is crucial – cutting warm bread can make it gummy and affect the texture. For the softest crust, brush the top with a little butter while still hot.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 9</h4>Once completely cool (at least 1 hour), use a serrated knife to slice your bread. Store in an airtight container or bread bag at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze sliced for up to 3 months for longer storage.</li></ol>

FAQs

Find answers to your most pressing questions about this delicious recipe right here.

What ingredients are used in Classic White Sandwich Bread?

This homemade bread requires bread flour (strong white flour), instant dry yeast, salt, sugar, softened unsalted butter, lukewarm water, and vegetable oil for greasing. These simple pantry staples combine to create a perfectly soft, golden loaf with a tender crumb.

How to cook Classic White Sandwich Bread at home?

Learn how to cook Classic White Sandwich Bread by mixing dry ingredients, incorporating butter and water, kneading until elastic, letting it rise twice, shaping into a loaf, and baking at 200°C for 30-35 minutes until golden. The key steps include proper kneading, patient proofing, and ensuring the bread reaches 90-95°C internally before cooling completely.

Why is my homemade bread dense instead of light and fluffy?

Dense bread usually results from insufficient kneading (underdeveloped gluten), insufficient rising time, or incorrect water temperature affecting yeast activation. Other culprits include using expired yeast, adding too much flour during kneading, or not allowing proper proofing in a warm environment.

Can I make this sandwich bread without a stand mixer?

Absolutely! While a stand mixer makes the process easier, you can achieve excellent results kneading by hand. Simply mix ingredients in a bowl until combined, then knead on a lightly floured surface for 10-12 minutes until smooth and elastic. The tactile experience can actually help you better feel when the dough is ready.

How do I store homemade bread to keep it fresh longer?

For maximum freshness, allow bread to cool completely before storing in an airtight container or bread bag at room temperature (3 days max). For longer storage, slice the entire loaf and freeze with parchment paper between slices. Frozen bread toasts beautifully straight from the freezer and lasts up to 3 months.

Want to try something else in ...

Sandwich Bread

Try following recommended recipes

View all
An overhead shot of a perfectly risen loaf of Keto Almond Flour Sandwich Bread with a golden-brown top crust, sliced to reveal its light and airy crumb structure. The bread sits on a rustic wooden cutting board, with several slices arranged beside the loaf showing its sturdy yet tender texture. Soft natural light streams in from a nearby window, highlighting the subtle flecks of almond throughout the pale interior. In the background, a small dish of grass-fed butter and a drizzle of honey suggest serving possibilities, while scattered almonds and a cloth napkin add texture to the composition. The bread's height and structure clearly demonstrate its sandwich-worthiness—a rare quality in keto baking.
Breads
Sandwich Bread

Keto Almond Flour Sandwich Bread Recipe

Fluffy, tender low-carb sandwich bread with a golden crust and nutty flavor that slices beautifully for all your favorite sandwich fillings.
Difficulty:
Beginner
Prep Time:
15 mins
Cook Time:
35 mins
Serves:
1 loaf (16 slices)
View recipe
An overhead shot of freshly sliced avocado sandwich bread arranged on a rustic wooden cutting board, with one slice propped up to showcase its light green-tinted crumb and perfectly golden crust. Soft natural light streams from a side window, highlighting the bread's tender texture and moist interior. A halved avocado, fresh herbs, and a drizzle of olive oil sit alongside, suggesting serving possibilities. A vintage bread knife rests nearby, and a few breadcrumbs are artfully scattered across the wood surface, creating a lived-in, homely atmosphere that emphasizes this bread's wholesome, handmade quality.
Breads
Sandwich Bread

Avocado Sandwich Bread Recipe

Rich, moist avocado-infused sandwich bread with a tender crumb and subtle green hue, perfect for elevating everyday sandwiches with a nutritious twist.
Difficulty:
Beginner
Prep Time:
25 mins
Cook Time:
45 mins
Serves:
1 loaf (14 slices)
View recipe
An overhead shot of a rustic, artisanal round loaf with a deep golden-brown crust dusted with flour, revealing attractive scoring patterns across the top. A cross-section slice showcases the bread's open, airy crumb structure with visible strands of caramelized onions woven throughout the amber-tinted interior. The bread rests on a weathered wooden board alongside a small bowl of herb-infused olive oil for dipping, with sprigs of fresh thyme and a few whole caramelized onions artfully scattered around. Warm, directional lighting highlights the glossy sheen of the crust and the moist, tender interior, emphasizing the contrast between the rustic exterior and the soft, flavor-packed crumb.
Breads
Sandwich Bread

Beer and Caramelized Onion Bread Recipe

This rich, aromatic loaf delivers the sweet depth of caramelized onions balanced against the malty notes of beer, all wrapped in a crusty exterior that gives way to a tender, flavorful crumb.
Difficulty:
Intermediate
Prep Time:
3 hours 30 mins
Cook Time:
45 mins
Serves:
1 loaf (12 slices)
View recipe
An overhead shot of a freshly sliced turmeric golden milk sandwich loaf arranged on a rustic wooden board, displaying its vibrant yellow interior with a perfect tender crumb. Natural window light highlights the golden-hued crust with subtle speckles of black pepper and cinnamon. A small jar of golden milk spice blend sits nearby, alongside a butter knife and a partially spread slice showing the bread's soft, pillowy texture. A light dusting of turmeric powder decorates one corner of the wooden board, while steam rises gently from a freshly cut slice, suggesting warmth and freshness.
Breads
Sandwich Bread

Turmeric Golden Milk Sandwich Bread Recipe

A vibrant, aromatic sandwich loaf infused with warming turmeric, cinnamon, and ginger, creating a soft, golden crumb perfect for both sweet and savory applications.
Difficulty:
Intermediate
Prep Time:
30 mins
Cook Time:
35 mins
Serves:
1 loaf (16 slices)
View recipe
An overhead shot of a freshly sliced loaf of vibrant green spinach herb bread on a rustic wooden cutting board, with several slices fanned out to showcase the soft, pillowy texture studded with flecks of herbs. The bread's striking emerald crumb contrasts beautifully with its golden-brown crust, captured in soft natural light streaming through a kitchen window. Scattered fresh herbs—thyme, rosemary, and basil—surround the loaf alongside a small bowl of olive oil for dipping and a linen napkin, creating an inviting tableau that highlights the bread's artisanal quality and springtime appeal.
Breads
Sandwich Bread

Spinach Herb Sandwich Bread Recipe

Tender homemade sandwich bread infused with fresh spinach and aromatic herbs for a vibrant green crumb that elevates everyday sandwiches with garden-fresh flavor.
Difficulty:
Intermediate
Prep Time:
25 mins
Cook Time:
40 mins
Serves:
1 loaf (12 slices)
View recipe
An overhead shot of freshly-baked cornmeal sandwich bread showcases its golden-yellow crust with a slight cornmeal dusting. A cross-section view reveals the bread's tight, even crumb structure with tiny yellow cornmeal specks throughout. The loaf sits on a rustic wooden cutting board with a linen tea towel, partially sliced to reveal its soft, tender interior. Shot in warm natural light that highlights the bread's golden tones, with a butter dish, honey jar, and scattered cornmeal adding contextual elements. Steam rises subtly from the freshly-cut slice, suggesting warmth and freshness.
Breads
Sandwich Bread

Cornmeal Sandwich Bread Recipe

A moist, tender sandwich bread with a delicate cornmeal crunch and rich honey undertones that's perfect for everything from morning toast to hearty sandwiches.
Difficulty:
Beginner
Prep Time:
20 mins
Cook Time:
35 mins
Serves:
1 loaf (16 slices)
View recipe
An overhead shot of a freshly sliced loaf of golden-orange tinged Sweet Potato Sandwich Bread on a rustic wooden cutting board, with one slice propped against the loaf revealing its soft, moist crumb. Captured in warm morning light, the bread's subtle orange hue contrasts beautifully with scattered wheat stalks and a small dish of honey butter nearby. A cross-section view highlights the bread's even texture and small, tender air pockets, while a light dusting of flour remains on the artfully scored top crust. The scene includes a vintage bread knife and linen towel, suggesting homemade comfort and wholesome ingredients.
Breads
Sandwich Bread

Sweet Potato Sandwich Bread Recipe

Fluffy, slightly sweet sandwich bread infused with nutrient-rich roasted sweet potato for a golden crumb and delicate earthy flavor that elevates every sandwich.
Difficulty:
Advanced
Prep Time:
3 hours 30 mins
Cook Time:
40 mins
Serves:
1 loaf (12 slices)
View recipe
An overhead shot of a freshly sliced loaf of Olive Sandwich Bread on a rustic wooden cutting board, showcasing its golden-brown crust and interior studded with green and black olives. Soft natural light streams in from a nearby window, highlighting the bread's moist crumb and the glistening olive pieces throughout. A few slices are arranged alongside the loaf, revealing the perfect sandwich-ready texture and scattered herbs visible in the dough. Beside the board sits a small bowl of extra virgin olive oil and a sprig of fresh rosemary, enhancing the Mediterranean aesthetic. The contrast between the deep browns of the crust, the ivory crumb, and the purple-black and green olives creates a visually striking composition that showcases the bread's rustic elegance.
Breads
Sandwich Bread

Olive Sandwich Bread Recipe

A savory, aromatic bread loaded with olives and herbs that creates a perfect canvas for sandwiches with a tender crumb and crisp crust.
Difficulty:
Advanced
Prep Time:
25 mins
Cook Time:
40 mins
Serves:
1 loaf (16 slices)
View recipe
An overhead shot of a golden-brown Za'atar Spiced Sandwich Bread loaf with a perfect dome, sliced to reveal a soft, even crumb structure. The bread sits on a rustic wooden board under soft natural light, with a small bowl of olive green za'atar spice mix and fresh herbs scattered nearby. A cross-section slice stands upright showing flecks of herbs throughout the bread, while a thin stream of extra virgin olive oil drizzles onto a slice in the foreground, highlighting the bread's Mediterranean character and absorption qualities. The contrast between the crusty exterior and tender interior creates visual depth, with specks of thyme, sesame seeds, and sumac from the za'atar blend visible on the textured top crust.
Breads
Sandwich Bread

Za'atar Spiced Sandwich Bread Recipe

Aromatic sandwich bread infused with tangy za'atar, creating a Mediterranean-inspired loaf with herbaceous notes perfect for sandwiches, toasting, or enjoying with olive oil.
Difficulty:
Beginner
Prep Time:
20 mins
Cook Time:
35 mins
Serves:
1 loaf (12 slices)
View recipe
An overhead shot of a freshly baked maple brown sugar loaf with a beautifully domed top and rich golden-brown crust, sliced to reveal its soft, even crumb structure. The cross-section displays a warm amber-tinted interior that hints at its maple sweetness. Photographed in soft natural morning light on a wooden cutting board with scattered oats and a small jar of maple syrup nearby. A slice rests beside the loaf with a pat of melting butter, highlighting the bread's pillowy texture and subtle sheen from the maple glaze that was brushed on while warm.
Breads
Sandwich Bread

Maple Brown Sugar Sandwich Bread Recipe

A tender, aromatic sandwich bread infused with maple syrup and brown sugar that creates perfectly sweet slices ideal for toast, sandwiches, or enjoying with a simple spread of butter.
Difficulty:
Beginner
Prep Time:
25 mins
Cook Time:
40 mins
Serves:
1 loaf (16 slices)
View recipe
{ "@context": "http://schema.org/", "@type": "Recipe", "name": "Classic White Sandwich Bread Recipe", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Gurbir Aujla", "brand": "What's Baking?", "jobTitle": "Baker" }, "datePublished": "2024-04-15", "description": "Learn how to make the best homemade Classic White Sandwich Bread with this easy baking recipe. This foolproof method produces a perfectly soft, fluffy loaf every time. Master the technique of kneading, proofing, and baking for bakery-quality sandwich bread that's far superior to store-bought.", "prepTime": "PT25M", "cookTime": "PT35M", "totalTime": "PT3H", "keywords": "homemade sandwich bread, soft white bread, easy bread recipe, beginner baking, sandwich loaf", "recipeYield": "1 loaf (12 slices)", "recipeCategory": "Bread", "recipeCuisine": "American", "nutrition": { "@type": "NutritionInformation", "calories": "165 calories", "carbohydrateContent": "30 g", "proteinContent": "5 g", "fatContent": "3 g", "saturatedFatContent": "1.5 g", "cholesterolContent": "5 mg", "sodiumContent": "240 mg", "sugarContent": "2 g", "servingSize": "1 slice" }, "recipeIngredient": [ "500g bread flour (strong white flour)", "7g instant dry yeast (one sachet)", "10g salt", "15g sugar", "30g unsalted butter, softened", "300ml lukewarm water (around 37°C)", "15ml vegetable oil (for greasing)" ], "recipeInstructions": [ { "@type": "HowToStep", "name": "Mix dry ingredients", "text": "Begin by combining the bread flour, instant yeast, salt, and sugar in a large mixing bowl. Keep the salt and yeast on opposite sides of the bowl initially, as direct contact with salt can inhibit yeast activity. Make a well in the center of your dry ingredients." }, { "@type": "HowToStep", "name": "Form dough", "text": "Add the softened butter and pour in about two-thirds of the lukewarm water. Using your fingers or a wooden spoon, start combining the ingredients, gradually adding more water until all the flour is incorporated and you have a slightly sticky dough. You may not need all the water, or you might need a touch more – the exact amount depends on your flour's absorption rate." }, { "@type": "HowToStep", "name": "Knead", "text": "Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. This develops the gluten structure that will give your bread its wonderful texture. The dough should pass the \"windowpane test\" – when a small piece is stretched between your fingers, it should become thin enough to see light through without tearing." }, { "@type": "HowToStep", "name": "First rise", "text": "Form the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly oiled bowl. Cover with a damp clean cloth or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm, draft-free spot until doubled in size, about 1-1.5 hours. The ideal temperature for rising is around 24-27°C (75-80°F)." }, { "@type": "HowToStep", "name": "Shape loaf", "text": "Once risen, gently punch down the dough to release air bubbles. Turn it onto a lightly floured surface and flatten into a rough rectangle about the width of your loaf tin. Fold the longer sides into the center like an envelope, then roll the dough tightly from one short end to form a log shape. Pinch the seam closed to seal." }, { "@type": "HowToStep", "name": "Second rise", "text": "Place the shaped dough seam-side down in a greased loaf tin. Cover again and allow to rise for another 45-60 minutes until the dough has crowned about 2.5cm (1 inch) above the rim of the tin. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F)." }, { "@type": "HowToStep", "name": "Bake", "text": "When the dough has risen properly, bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes until golden brown on top. The bread is done when it sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom, or when an instant-read thermometer inserted into the center registers 90-95°C (195-205°F)." }, { "@type": "HowToStep", "name": "Cool", "text": "Remove the bread from the oven and turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. This cooling period is crucial – cutting warm bread can make it gummy and affect the texture. For the softest crust, brush the top with a little butter while still hot." }, { "@type": "HowToStep", "name": "Slice and store", "text": "Once completely cool (at least 1 hour), use a serrated knife to slice your bread. Store in an airtight container or bread bag at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze sliced for up to 3 months for longer storage." } ], "aggregateRating": { "@type": "AggregateRating", "ratingValue": "5", "ratingCount": "156" }, "review": [ { "@type": "Review", "author": "Olivia Chen", "datePublished": "2024-04-02", "reviewBody": "Perfect texture, makes great sandwiches! I've been trying different bread recipes for years and this is by far the best. The instructions were clear and my loaf turned out exactly like the photos.", "name": "Perfect Sandwich Bread", "reviewRating": { "@type": "Rating", "ratingValue": "5" } }, { "@type": "Review", "author": "Mateo Rodriguez", "datePublished": "2024-04-05", "reviewBody": "Best homemade bread I've ever made! The crumb is so soft and the crust has just the right texture. My kids demolished it in a single day and asked when I'll make more!", "name": "Family Favorite", "reviewRating": { "@type": "Rating", "ratingValue": "5" } }, { "@type": "Review", "author": "Amara Okafor", "datePublished": "2024-04-10", "reviewBody": "So much better than store-bought! This recipe is foolproof and produces a beautiful loaf every time. I love that I know exactly what ingredients are going into my family's bread now.", "name": "Never Going Back to Store-Bought", "reviewRating": { "@type": "Rating", "ratingValue": "5" } }, { "@type": "Review", "author": "Henrik Johansson", "datePublished": "2024-04-15", "reviewBody": "Family demolished it in one day! As a beginner baker, I was nervous to try making bread but this recipe made it so easy. The detailed instructions helped me create the perfect loaf on my first attempt.", "name": "Beginner Success", "reviewRating": { "@type": "Rating", "ratingValue": "5" } }, { "@type": "Review", "author": "Priya Patel", "datePublished": "2024-04-20", "reviewBody": "Soft interior with beautiful crust! I've been making this bread weekly for a month now. It freezes beautifully and toasts up perfectly. This has become our go-to sandwich bread recipe.", "name": "Weekly Staple", "reviewRating": { "@type": "Rating", "ratingValue": "5" } } ] }
{ "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "FAQPage", "mainEntity": [ { "@type": "Question", "name": "What ingredients are used in Classic White Sandwich Bread?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "This homemade bread requires bread flour (strong white flour), instant dry yeast, salt, sugar, softened unsalted butter, lukewarm water, and vegetable oil for greasing. These simple pantry staples combine to create a perfectly soft, golden loaf with a tender crumb." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How to cook Classic White Sandwich Bread at home?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Learn how to cook Classic White Sandwich Bread by mixing dry ingredients, incorporating butter and water, kneading until elastic, letting it rise twice, shaping into a loaf, and baking at 200°C for 30-35 minutes until golden. The key steps include proper kneading, patient proofing, and ensuring the bread reaches 90-95°C internally before cooling completely." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Why is my homemade bread dense instead of light and fluffy?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Dense bread usually results from insufficient kneading (underdeveloped gluten), insufficient rising time, or incorrect water temperature affecting yeast activation. Other culprits include using expired yeast, adding too much flour during kneading, or not allowing proper proofing in a warm environment." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Can I make this sandwich bread without a stand mixer?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Absolutely! While a stand mixer makes the process easier, you can achieve excellent results kneading by hand. Simply mix ingredients in a bowl until combined, then knead on a lightly floured surface for 10-12 minutes until smooth and elastic. The tactile experience can actually help you better feel when the dough is ready." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How do I store homemade bread to keep it fresh longer?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "For maximum freshness, allow bread to cool completely before storing in an airtight container or bread bag at room temperature (3 days max). For longer storage, slice the entire loaf and freeze with parchment paper between slices. Frozen bread toasts beautifully straight from the freezer and lasts up to 3 months." } } ] }