This 9x4x4 Pullman Bread pan recipe promises slices that are not only irresistibly soft but also perfectly squared for your culinary creations. From sandwiches and toasts to French toast and more, this bread's versatility knows no bounds. With a touch of elegance and a dash of homemade goodness, your baking journey is about to become even more delightful.
Begin by weighing or measuring your flour accurately. Mix all the ingredients in the order listed, either by hand or using a stand mixer, until a smooth dough forms. The dough should feel bouncy and elastic to the touch.
Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl or an 8-cup measuring cup. Cover it and allow it to rise for 60 to 90 minutes. During this time, the dough will become noticeably puffy, though it might not necessarily double in size.
Gently deflate the risen dough and shape it into a 9" log. Place the dough in a lightly greased 9" pain de mie pan. To prevent the dough from sticking, cover the pan with plastic wrap.
Let the dough rise for about 60 minutes, until it reaches approximately 1/2" from the top edge of the pan. As the dough rises, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Remove the plastic wrap and gently slide the greased lid onto the pan. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake the bread for 25 minutes. Afterward, remove the lid and continue baking for an additional 5 to 10 minutes, or until the bread achieves a rich golden brown color.
You can use an instant-read thermometer to ensure the bread's internal temperature reads between 195°F to 200°F (90°C to 93°C). If you prefer a lighter crust, tent the loaf with foil as soon as you remove the pan lid.
Once the bread is baked to perfection, remove it from the oven and gently turn it out onto a cooling rack. Allow the bread to cool completely before wrapping it in plastic. Store the bread at room temperature for ultimate freshness.
Serving Size 1 slice (41g)
Servings 18
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
This recipe yields one 9" loaf, which can be sliced into approximately 18 to 24 servings, depending on your preferred thickness. For an exciting variation, consider making a tangy sourdough version by substituting 227g (1 cup) of sourdough starter discard for 113g (1/2 cup) of water and 113g (1 cup) of flour. Adjust the remaining water and flour accordingly based on your starter's consistency.