How to Make Pain de Mie: Soft French Sandwich Bread Recipe

--- published by foodie Parmod.

Introduction: What Is Pain de Mie?

Pain de mie is a classic French sandwich bread known for its soft crumb, light texture, and perfectly square shape when baked in a lidded tin. The name literally translates to “bread of crumb,” which highlights its main feature—minimal crust and maximum softness. Unlike rustic country loaves, pain de mie is enriched with milk, butter, and sometimes sugar, making it ideal for toast, sandwiches, or French toast.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to make pain de mie at home using British ingredients and simple steps. If you're craving soft, bakery-style white bread that’s a cut above supermarket loaves, this is the perfect recipe to try.

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Ingredients for 1 Loaf (900g/2lb Tin)

450g strong white bread flour

7g sachet fast-action dried yeast

10g fine sea salt

15g caster sugar

30g unsalted butter (softened)

250ml whole milk (lukewarm)

50ml lukewarm water

Extra butter or oil for greasing

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Optional Equipment

Pullman loaf tin with lid (for classic square shape)

Standard loaf tin (for domed top version)

Stand mixer with dough hook (optional but helpful)

Pastry brush for buttering the crust

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Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Pain de Mie

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Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a jug, mix the lukewarm milk and water with the sugar. Stir in the yeast and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy. This indicates the yeast is active and ready.

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Step 2: Mix the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and softened butter. Mix to form a sticky dough. Knead on a lightly floured surface for 8–10 minutes or use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 5–7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.

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Step 3: First Rise (Bulk Fermentation)

Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly greased bowl. Cover with a clean tea towel or cling film and leave to rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

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Step 4: Shape the Loaf

Once risen, gently punch down the dough to remove air. Shape it into a tight log and place it into a greased loaf tin. If using a Pullman tin, grease the lid as well.

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Step 5: Second Rise

Cover loosely with cling film or the lid of your Pullman tin (do not seal it completely). Let the dough rise again for 45–60 minutes, or until it nearly reaches the top of the tin.

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Step 6: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 190°C (170°C fan)/Gas Mark 5. If using a Pullman tin, place the lid on before baking.

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Step 7: Bake the Pain de Mie

Bake for 30–35 minutes until golden brown on top and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped underneath. If using a lidded tin, remove the lid in the last 5 minutes for a light crust.

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Step 8: Cool and Slice

Let the bread cool in the tin for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cool, slice with a serrated knife for the cleanest cuts.

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Serving Suggestions

Toast: Buttered toast with jam or honey

Sandwiches: Perfect for cheese, ham, egg mayo, or cucumber sandwiches

French Toast: Dip in egg mixture and fry for a soft and sweet treat

Croutons or breadcrumbs: Use leftovers for homemade toppings

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Tips for the Best Pain de Mie

Use milk, not water alone: It creates a softer crumb and a slightly sweet taste.

Don’t skip the second rise: It ensures an even, fluffy texture.

Use a lidded tin for that authentic square loaf with minimal crust.

Brush with butter after baking for a soft, shiny top.

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Storage Advice

Store in an airtight container or bread bag at room temperature for up to 3 days.

For longer storage, slice and freeze. Toast directly from frozen when needed.

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Conclusion: French Soft Bread Made Simple

Now that you know how to make pain de mie, you can enjoy soft, fluffy, homemade bread perfect for everyday use. This classic French loaf is simple to make, delicious to eat, and far superior to shop-bought sandwich bread.

Whether you use it for a morning toast, posh afternoon sandwiches, or weekend French toast, pain de mie is a versatile staple every home baker should master.

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How to make pain de mie

French sandwich bread recipe UK

Soft white bread recipe British ingredients

Pain de mie Pullman loaf recipe

Homemade pain de mie without crust

Best bread for toast and sandwiches

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Learn how to make pain de mie – a soft, French sandwich bread – with this easy step-by-step recipe using British ingredients. Perfect for toast, sandwiches, and more.

--- write ✍️ by foodie Parmod.