Light Bread Machine Sandwich Bread

1. 1

   Heat water to 120 degrees. I use a meat thermometer to check the temperature. Do not guess at the temperature of your water. Too hot or too cold makes a difference.

2. 2

   Add sugar to water and stir until dissolved. (Note: If you do not dissolve the sugar, you will not get the same result.).

3. 3

   Add 2 packages of RAPID RISE yeast to the water. (Note: regular yeast will not give you the same result.).

4. 4

   Let mixture sit for 10 minutes. That seems to be the best amount of time. Anything more than 20 minutes seems to have a negative effect on the results. If you skip this step you won't get the fluffiness you're looking for. This should be in ADDITION to your bread machine rise.

5. 5

   Spray bread machine pan with non-stick spray.

6. 6

   Pour yeast mixture into pan. (My bread machine directions say always pour dry ingredients in first, but this works for me).

7. 7

   Add oil. (I've tried this recipe with 4T of oil and no butter and 4T of butter and no oil, but did not get the same result.).

8. 8

   Add melted butter. Salted or unsalted butter doesn't seem to make a difference. If I use unsalted butter, I up the salt to 1 1/2 teaspoons.

9. 9

   Add flour.

10. 10

    Add beaten egg.

11. 11

    Add salt.

12. 12

    Select medium crust, white bread and 2-pound loaf cycle.

13. 13

    Remove the bread from the bread pan after the cycle has finished and place on a rack so the bottom doesn't get soggy. Try to resist taking that first slice while it's still warm. Sometimes I do -- sometimes I don't. :-) Lasts about 2 weeks in a refrigerator. Lasts about 3 days if kept out.

14. 14

    You can take this basic recipe and add whatever spices you enjoy. I've used garlic, oregano, basil, etc. I haven't tried cheese yet, but if someone out there does would love to know how it turns out!

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.