No Knead Sandwich Bread

There’s something incredibly satisfying about baking your own bread. The aroma wafting through your kitchen, the golden crust, and the soft, pillowy interior all make the effort worthwhile. If you’re looking for a simple yet delicious way to enjoy homemade bread without the fuss of kneading, this No Knead Sandwich Bread recipe is exactly what you need. With just a few ingredients and minimal hands-on time, you’ll have a loaf that’s perfect for sandwiches, toast, or simply slathered with butter and jam.

Why This No Knead Sandwich Bread Stands Out

This No Knead Sandwich Bread is a game changer for anyone who loves bread but dreads the thought of spending hours in the kitchen kneading dough. What makes it special?

– Easy Preparation: No need for intense labor; just mix, let it rise, and bake.
– Versatile Texture: The combination of bread flour and whole wheat flour gives it a lovely texture that’s soft yet sturdy.
– Rich Flavor: The addition of honey and melted butter infuses the bread with flavor, making it irresistible.
– Perfect for All Occasions: Whether you’re making a classic PB&J or a gourmet grilled cheese, this bread has your back.

What to Buy

To create this delightful No Knead Sandwich Bread, gather the following ingredients:

• 2 cups bread flour (312 grams or 11 ounces)
• 6 tablespoons whole-wheat flour (57 grams or 2 ounces)
• 2 teaspoons instant or rapid-rise yeast (7 grams)
• 1 cup water (312 grams or 11 ounces), warm (110°F)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (57 grams), melted and divided (½ stick)
• 4 teaspoons honey (88 grams)
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt (3 grams)
• 1 large egg (50 grams), lightly beaten with 1 teaspoon water and a pinch of salt

Equipment Breakdown

Before you dive in, make sure you have these kitchen essentials:

• Mixing bowl: For combining your dry and wet ingredients.
• Loaf pan: To shape and bake your bread.
• Whisk: For mixing the dry ingredients and beating the egg wash.
• Kitchen towel: To cover the dough while it rises.
• Oven: To bake your delicious bread.

Directions: No Knead Sandwich Bread

Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the bread flour, whole-wheat flour, yeast, and kosher salt until well combined.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, mix the warm water, melted butter (reserve 1 tablespoon for later), and honey until the honey is fully dissolved.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Don’t worry about getting it perfectly smooth; a few lumps are okay!

Step 4: First Rise

Cover the bowl with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

Step 5: Shape the Dough

Once risen, lightly flour your work surface and turn the dough out onto it. Gently shape it into a rectangle, then roll it up tightly to form a loaf.

Step 6: Second Rise

Place the shaped dough into a greased loaf pan. Cover it again with a kitchen towel and let it rise for another 30 to 45 minutes, or until it has puffed up.

Step 7: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while the dough is rising so it’s ready when your bread is.

Step 8: Egg Wash

Brush the top of the loaf with the beaten egg mixture, using the reserved tablespoon of melted butter for a golden finish.

Step 9: Bake

Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped.

Step 10: Cool

Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Seasonal Ingredient Swaps

Feel free to get creative with your No Knead Sandwich Bread! Here are some ideas for seasonal ingredient swaps:

• Herbs: Add dried herbs like rosemary or thyme for a fragrant twist.
• Seeds: Incorporate chia seeds or flaxseeds for added nutrition.
• Nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans can add a delightful crunch.
• Sweeteners: Swap honey for maple syrup or agave nectar for a different flavor profile.

What I Learned Testing

While developing this recipe, I discovered a few key points that made all the difference in achieving the perfect loaf:

• Temperature matters: Using warm water (110°F) helps activate the yeast effectively.
• Don’t rush the rising times; they are crucial for developing flavor and texture.
• Be gentle when shaping the dough; handling it too roughly can deflate all that air you worked so hard to create.
• Using a loaf pan helps maintain the shape and makes slicing easier.

Cooling, Storing & Rewarming

Once your No Knead Sandwich Bread has cooled completely, here’s how to handle it:

The bread should be stored in an airtight container at room temperature, where it will keep fresh for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider slicing the loaf and wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap before placing it in a freezer bag. This way, you can pull out a slice or two whenever the craving strikes. To rewarm, simply pop the slices in the toaster or reheat in the oven for a few minutes.

Troubleshooting Q&A

Why did my bread not rise as expected?

This could be due to the yeast being expired or the water temperature being too hot or too cold. Always check that your yeast is fresh and use warm water around 110°F for the best results.

My bread turned out dense. What went wrong?

Dense bread can result from not allowing enough rising time or overworking the dough. Make sure to follow the rise times and avoid excessive handling.

How can I tell when my bread is done baking?

The bread should be a deep golden brown, and it will sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. Additionally, you can use an instant-read thermometer; the internal temperature should be around 190°F.

Can I make this bread without honey?

Yes! You can substitute honey with cane sugar, agave syrup, or even leave it out entirely for a less sweet bread. Just keep in mind that the flavor will be slightly different.

If you love baking and want to explore more healthy-ish recipes, check out these delightful options:

Serve & Enjoy

Now that you’ve mastered the art of No Knead Sandwich Bread, it’s time to enjoy it! This loaf is perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Whether you’re making classic sandwiches, toasting it for a hearty breakfast, or serving it alongside your favorite soup, the possibilities are endless.

With minimal effort and maximum flavor, this No Knead Sandwich Bread will quickly become a staple in your home. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to impress your family and friends with this delicious homemade bread!