Description
This Sourdough Sandwich Bread recipe yields two soft, flavorful loaves perfect for sandwiches. Combining the tangy complexity of sourdough discard with the ease of instant yeast, this bread offers a tender crumb and a golden crust. Ideal for homemade sandwiches, toast, or any bread craving, it balances whole wheat heartiness with the lightness of all-purpose flour.
Ingredients
Scale
Flours
- 6 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (800 grams)
- 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour (200 grams)
Flavorings and Leavening
- 1 Tablespoon kosher salt (15 grams)
- 3 Tablespoons sugar (40 grams)
- 2 1/4 teaspoons Instant yeast (7 grams)
- 1/2 cup sourdough discard (100 grams)
Liquids and Fat
- 2 1/2 cups warm water (105–110°F) (600 grams)
- 3 Tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature (40 grams)
Instructions
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, kosher salt, sugar, and instant yeast. Whisk together until evenly distributed to ensure consistent rising.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Stir in the sourdough discard, warm water (105-110°F), and softened unsalted butter into the dry ingredients. Mix thoroughly with a wooden spoon or dough hook attachment until a shaggy dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead by hand for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook to knead on medium speed for 6-7 minutes.
- First Rise: Place the kneaded dough into a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise at room temperature for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Shape the Loaves: Gently punch down the risen dough to release air. Divide the dough evenly into two portions. Shape each portion into a loaf by flattening into a rectangle, then rolling tightly from one short edge to the other. Pinch seams to seal.
- Second Rise: Place each shaped loaf into greased 9×5-inch loaf pans. Cover loosely with plastic wrap and allow the dough to rise again for 45-60 minutes until it has risen just above the pan edges.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the loaves for 30-35 minutes until the crust is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped. An instant-read thermometer inserted into the center should read 190°F (88°C) to ensure the bread is fully baked.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the loaves from the pans and cool completely on a wire rack before slicing. This prevents a gummy texture and allows the crumb to set perfectly.
Notes
- Using warm water between 105–110°F activates the yeast without killing it.
- Sourdough discard adds flavor and complexity without the need for long fermentation.
- Room temperature butter ensures even distribution and a tender crumb.
- Allow loaves to cool fully before slicing for best texture.
- You can substitute all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour if you prefer a lighter bread, adjusting water slightly if needed.
