Are you tired of store-bought sandwich bread? Yearning for that soft, fluffy texture and irresistible homemade taste? Then look no further! This easy sandwich roll bread recipe will become your new go-to for quick dinner ideas and delicious lunches. Making your own bread might seem daunting, but trust me, this recipe is incredibly simple, even for beginner bakers. Get ready to enjoy the satisfying aroma of freshly baked bread filling your kitchen – it's a truly rewarding experience!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup warm water (105-115°F)
- 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and cooled slightly
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 ½ – 4 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Sesame seeds or poppy seeds (optional, for topping)
Instructions:
Step 1: Activating the Yeast
In a large bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar. Gently stir and let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy. This ensures your yeast is alive and ready to work its magic!
Step 2: Combining Ingredients
Once the yeast mixture is foamy, add the melted butter and salt. Stir well to combine.
Step 3: Adding the Flour
Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing with a wooden spoon or your hands until a shaggy dough forms. Don't worry if it's a little sticky at first.
Step 4: Kneading the Dough
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, or until the dough becomes smooth and elastic. If it's too sticky, add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time.
Step 5: First Rise
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
Step 6: Shaping the Rolls
Punch down the dough to release the air. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a smooth ball.
Step 7: Second Rise
Place the rolls onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between them. Cover loosely with plastic wrap and let rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until almost doubled in size.
Step 8: Baking
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the rolls with the beaten egg wash and sprinkle with sesame seeds or poppy seeds, if desired. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Step 9: Cooling and Serving
Remove the rolls from the oven and let them cool slightly on a wire rack before serving. Enjoy your warm, fluffy homemade sandwich rolls!
Tips for Perfect Rolls:
- Water Temperature: Make sure your water is the correct temperature – too hot will kill the yeast, too cold will slow down the rising process.
- Kneading: Proper kneading develops the gluten in the flour, resulting in a softer, chewier texture.
- Rising Time: Rising times can vary depending on the ambient temperature. If your kitchen is cool, the dough might need a little longer to rise.
Variations:
- Herb Rolls: Add 1-2 tablespoons of dried herbs, such as rosemary, thyme, or oregano, to the dough.
- Garlic Rolls: Add 1-2 cloves of minced garlic to the dough.
- Sweet Rolls: Add 2-3 tablespoons of sugar to the dough and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar before baking.
Nutritional Information (per roll, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150
- Fat: Approximately 5g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 25g
- Protein: Approximately 4g
This recipe is perfect for those seeking easy recipes and healthy meals. It’s a great way to enjoy homemade cooking and create delicious dishes from scratch. These soft and fluffy rolls are ideal for sandwiches, burgers, or simply enjoying with butter and jam. They're the best recipes for a satisfying and comforting meal!