A soft and fluffy homemade sandwich bread made using a small Pullman loaf pan that produces a one-pound loaf with a tight crumb that is perfect for slicing.
In a stand mixer, combine the warm water, 1/4 teaspoon of sugar, and yeast (take the sugar from the 1/4 cup amount). Allow to sit for 5 to 10 minutes or until the yeast has started to foam.
Add the remaining sugar, salt, melted butter, and 3 cups of flour. Mix using a bread hook. Use a spatula to scrape the sides of the bowl if needed.
Add in 1/4 cup of flour and mix well. Repeat the process, mixing in between until the dough starts to pull away from the bowl. The dough will still be slightly sticky to the touch.
Continue to mix the dough on low speed for 4 to 5 minutes. Meanwhile, lightly grease a large bowl with cooking oil and set aside.
Work the dough into a smooth ball and add to the greased bowl. Turn to lightly coat. Cover with a damp kitchen towel or a lightly sprayed plastic wrap and allow to rise in a warm location until the dough has doubled or more.
Once the dough has doubled, punch down to knock out some of the excess air. Dump the dough out onto a clean smooth surface and shape into a large rectangle about the length of a 4" x 9" Pullman loaf pan. Roll tightly into a loaf shape and place in the pan.
Preheat your oven to 350º Fahrenheit. Loosely cover the pan with lightly greased plastic wrap or a damp kitchen towel. Place the pan in a warm location until it has risen slightly above the sides of the pan.
After the dough has risen, remove the cover. Bake in preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes or until the top is golden brown. Coat the top of the loaf with butter for a softer crust.
Once cooled, store the bread in a sealed plastic bag. You can also slice the bread and store in freezer-safe plastic bags in the freezer. Enjoy!