Description
White sandwich bread from the Pioneer Woman blends simple ingredients into a classic, comforting loaf. Homemade slices promise warmth and satisfaction for anyone seeking nostalgic kitchen comfort.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups (480 ml) warm water
- 2 ¼ tsps (7 g) active dry yeast
- 5 ¼ cups (660 g) all-purpose flour
- 4 tbsps (57 g) butter, melted
- 1 tbsp (12 g) sugar
- 2 tsps (10 g) kosher salt
- Butter for greasing bowl and loaf pans
- Additional flour for kneading
Instructions
- Yeast Activation: Dissolve yeast in warm water at 110°F, blending with melted butter, sugar, and salt until a harmonious mixture emerges.
- Dough Formation: Incorporate flour progressively, stirring vigorously to create a smooth, homogeneous dough without dry flour remnants. Knead on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes, developing an elastic texture that rebounds when pressed.
- First Fermentation: Transfer dough to a greased bowl, covering with a clean towel. Allow to rise in a warm space for 60 minutes until dramatically expanded, creating a pillowy, robust foundation.
- Shaping and Proofing: Deflate the risen dough and divide into two equal portions. Shape into smooth loaves, positioning them in greased 9×5-inch baking pans. Cover loosely and let rise for 40-45 minutes until significantly puffed.
- Baking and Finishing: Preheat oven to 400°F. Bake loaves for 30-35 minutes until achieving a rich golden crust that sounds hollow when tapped. Immediately transfer to a wire rack, allowing complete cooling for one hour before slicing to maintain structural integrity.
Notes
- Check Yeast Viability: Ensure your yeast is fresh and active by observing bubble formation in warm water; inactive yeast will prevent proper bread rising.
- Master Kneading Technique: Press and fold dough consistently for 8-10 minutes to develop gluten structure, creating a smooth, elastic texture that guarantees soft bread.
- Control Rising Environment: Maintain a warm, draft-free space around 80-85°F for optimal dough expansion; cooler temperatures significantly slow down fermentation.
- Precise Baking Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to confirm accurate 400°F heat, preventing undercooked centers or overly dark crusts that compromise bread quality.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Lunch, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 200 mg
- Fat: 5 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 24 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 15 mg