I got between those buns! Bread from scratch. Bread Maker Review
I got between those buns! 😬 Bread from scratch. Bread Maker Review! is a easy American recipe that serves 8. 120 calories per serving. Recipe by SJohnsonVoiceOvers on YouTube.
Prep: 7 min | Cook: 1 hr 30 min | Total: 1 hr 52 min
Cost: $1.37 total, $0.17 per serving
Ingredients
- 1 cup Water (lukewarm (about 105°F / 40°C))
- 0.33 cup Milk (lukewarm)
- 3 tablespoon Unsalted Butter (softened, cut into small pieces)
- 3 tablespoon Honey (plain, not flavored)
- 1.5 teaspoon Salt (fine table salt)
- 3.75 cup All-Purpose Flour (leveled, not packed; can substitute bread flour for a chewier crumb)
- 2 teaspoon Instant Yeast (active dry yeast works if doubled to 4 tsp)
Instructions
Measure Liquids
Measure 1 cup lukewarm water and 1/3 cup lukewarm milk. Set aside.
Time: PT2M
Add Butter and Honey
Add the softened butter and honey to the bread‑maker pan.
Time: PT1M
Add Salt and Flour
Add 1½ teaspoons salt, then 3¾ cups leveled all‑purpose flour on top of the liquids.
Time: PT2M
Add Yeast
Make a small well in the flour and sprinkle 2 teaspoons instant yeast into the well.
Time: PT1M
Start Bread‑Maker
Close the lid, select the 'Quick' setting and the 'Light Crust' option, then press start.
Time: PT1M
Bake Cycle
Allow the bread maker to complete its mixing, kneading, rising, and baking cycle.
Time: PT1H30M
Cool the Loaf
When the cycle ends, carefully remove the pan, turn the loaf out onto a cooling rack and let it cool 10 minutes before slicing.
Time: PT10M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 120
- Protein
- 3 g
- Carbohydrates
- 22 g
- Fat
- 3 g
- Fiber
- 1 g
Dietary info: Vegetarian
Allergens: Wheat, Dairy, Honey
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Water: additional milk, unsweetened almond milk
- Instead of Milk: lactose‑free milk, soy milk
- Instead of Unsalted Butter: vegetable oil, margarine
- Instead of Honey: maple syrup, granulated sugar (1 tbsp honey ≈ 1 tsp sugar)
- Instead of Salt: sea salt, kosher salt (use 1 tsp)
- Instead of All-Purpose Flour: bread flour, whole‑wheat flour (use 3/4 cup and add extra water)
- Instead of Instant Yeast: active dry yeast (double amount), fresh yeast (1 tsp fresh ≈ 1/2 tsp instant)
Equipment Needed
- Bread Maker
- Measuring Cups
- Measuring Spoons
- Spatula or Spoon
- Cooling Rack (optional)
- Bread Knife (optional)
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Measure liquids accurately and keep them lukewarm.
- Add salt and yeast on opposite sides of the flour to avoid premature interaction.
- Select the correct quick‑bread setting and light crust for a soft interior.
- Cool the loaf before slicing to retain texture.
Chef Tips from the Video
- Use room‑temperature butter so it incorporates without melting the yeast.
- If you prefer a sweeter loaf, increase honey to 4 tbsp.
- For a richer flavor, replace half the water with milk.
Troubleshooting
Bread did not rise or is very dense.
Check that the yeast is fresh (within 3 months) and that the water/milk were lukewarm, not hot. Also ensure the crust setting isn’t too low.
Crust is too dark or hard.
Select a lighter crust setting or reduce the bake time by 5‑10 minutes on the next batch.
Bread is gummy inside.
Allow the loaf to cool completely on a rack before slicing; excess moisture will evaporate.
Storage
Refrigerator: Not necessary; store at room temperature in a bread box for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Wrap tightly in foil or freezer bag; freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature.
Room temperature: Keep in a sealed bread bag or bread box for 2‑3 days.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Bake the loaf a day ahead and freeze slices for quick sandwiches.
- The dough can be prepared in the machine, then paused after the first rise; shape and bake later.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of simple homemade sandwich bread in American cuisine?
White sandwich bread became a staple in the United States during the early 20th century as industrial milling made refined flour cheap and abundant. It symbolizes convenience and the rise of home‑cooking appliances like the bread machine, which allowed families to produce fresh bread without daily kneading.
What regional variations of basic white bread exist within the United States?
In the Midwest, softer, sweeter loaves are common, often enriched with honey or milk. The East Coast favors a slightly crustier, chewier texture using higher‑protein flour. Southern versions may add a touch of cornmeal for a subtle grainy crust.
How is simple homemade bread traditionally served in American households?
It is typically sliced and used for sandwiches, toast, or served alongside soups and salads. Many families toast the slices and spread butter, jam, or peanut butter for breakfast.
During what occasions is homemade sandwich bread traditionally enjoyed in American culture?
Freshly baked bread is often featured at family gatherings, picnics, and holiday meals such as Thanksgiving, where it complements turkey and gravy. It’s also a weekend staple for homemade sandwiches.
What authentic ingredients are essential for traditional American sandwich bread versus acceptable substitutes?
Traditional recipes use all‑purpose flour, instant yeast, butter, honey (or sugar), milk, and salt. Substitutes like bread flour, vegetable oil, maple syrup, or dairy‑free milk work, but they slightly alter texture and flavor.
What other American dishes pair well with this simple homemade bread?
It pairs perfectly with classic American soups (chicken noodle, tomato), chili, grilled cheese, and deli-style sandwiches such as BLT or turkey club.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making this bread in a bread maker?
Common errors include using water that’s too hot (which kills yeast), placing salt directly on the yeast, and opening the lid during the bake cycle, which releases steam and can cause a pale crust.
Why does this recipe use instant yeast instead of active‑dry yeast in the bread maker?
Instant yeast dissolves quickly and works well in the rapid mixing and rising cycles of a bread‑maker’s quick setting, whereas active‑dry yeast requires a longer proofing period.
Can I make this bread ahead of time and how should I store it before serving?
Yes, bake the loaf, let it cool, then store it in a sealed bag at room temperature for up to three days or freeze sliced pieces for up to three months. Re‑heat frozen slices in a toaster or oven before serving.
What does the YouTube channel SJohnsonVoiceOvers specialize in?
The YouTube channel SJohnsonVoiceOvers focuses on straightforward, budget‑friendly cooking tutorials, often using voice‑over narration to demonstrate quick, everyday recipes for home cooks.
How does the YouTube channel SJohnsonVoiceOvers' approach to American comfort food differ from other cooking channels?
SJohnsonVoiceOvers emphasizes minimal ingredient lists, cost‑saving tips, and a humorous, no‑fluff presentation style, whereas many other channels include elaborate plating or extensive ingredient variations.
Last updated: August 24, 2026
