Pullman Bread Recipe

The Pullman bread recipe is a classic; its square shape is perfect, and its crumb is soft and tender. It is named after the Pullman railway car, which inspired its distinctive rectangular shape. It is traditionally baked in a Pullman loaf pan with a lid that gives it a square shape. Pullman bread is a versatile option thanks to its smooth, airy texture and mild, slightly sweet flavor, making it perfect for sandwiches, toast or even a base for bread pudding.
What makes this bread unique is that it is an enriched dough, so other types of bread will not have milk, butter and sugar — which creates a softer, more flavorful loaf. The dough is kneaded until smooth and elastic, and then it is left to rise. After baking, the Pullman loaf pan’s lid helps keep the bread from rising and guarantees a uniform, soft shape that yields slices ideal for even spreads or hefty fillings.
Ingredients & Method Pullman Bread uses a relatively easy technique, usually the straight dough method, so it is suitable for bakers of all skill levels. The result is a nice, even crumb and a texture that’s perfect for any number of uses, from light, buttery toast to savory sandwiches. This Pullman Bread Recipe is a great one to master as the flavor, texture, and shape are perfect for an array of uses. Whether you’re an experienced bread baker or brand new to it, this is a great recipe to have in your repertoire.
Once you bake this loaf, you’ll enjoy the satisfying aroma of freshly made bread filling your kitchen and the joy of slicing through a perfectly soft, square loaf, ready for any occasion.

Table of Contents

Pullman Bread Recipe: A Perfectly Soft and Square Loaf

It is based on a favorite, classic Pullman Bread Recipe that uses essential ingredients combined with a baking technique that allows for a uniquely shaped, soft loaf. It gets its name from the Pullman railway cars, which were known for their uniform and rectangular compartments and won’t come out of the oven with a rounded top; this bread recipe yields a perfectly square loaf that’s just right for even slicing. It’s a versatile bread with a mild flavor, and its fine crumb texture means it’s great for sandwiches, toast, or even gourmet bread-based dishes like bread pudding. If you’re looking to bake a soft, fluffy, and aesthetically pleasing loaf of bread, the Pullman Bread Recipe is a great place to start.

Key Ingredients for Pullman Bread

You’ll need a few staples to make Pullman bread, such as flour, yeast, salt and water. It also includes milk, butter and sugar, which enrich the dough and contribute to the soft, tender crumb that distinguishes this bread. These components come together to create a balanced flavor and airy texture, with a sweetness that adds to the bread without being overwhelming. This combination of ingredients, along with the technique of baking in a Pullman loaf pan, creates a uniform and fine crumb that’s ideal for slicing.

Baking Process and Technique for Pullman Bread Recipe

Pullman bread recipe is relatively straightforward to bake, but it requires some patience. You’ll first mix the wet and dry, then knead that dough until it’s smooth and elastic. The resting time will be around 1 to 1.5 hours to get the dough to double in size after kneading. The secret to getting that signature square shape is to use a Pullman loaf pan, a special rectangular pan with a lid. This pan helps control the bread’s rise, keeping it contained and ensuring the final loaf has even sides and a soft, squishy top. After shaping the dough and placing it in the pan, it’s allowed to rise a second time before baking at a moderate temperature of around 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes.

Health Benefits of Pullman Bread recipe

Pullman bread, like many homemade bread recipes, can provide several health benefits when made with wholesome ingredients. While it’s typically a higher-calorie bread due to its enriched dough (which includes butter, milk, and sugar), it can still be part of a balanced diet when consumed in moderation. Here are some of the benefits:

1. Rich in Carbohydrates: Pullman bread provides a good source of complex carbohydrates, which are the body’s primary energy source.
2. Good Source of Protein: The bread contains protein from flour and milk, contributing to muscle repair and growth.
3. Contains Dietary Fiber: If you choose to use whole wheat flour or add seeds, Pullman bread can provide additional fiber, which is essential for digestive health and keeping you feeling full longer.
4. Calcium: The inclusion of milk and butter in the dough adds a dose of calcium, which is crucial for bone health.
5. B Vitamins: The bread provides essential B vitamins like niacin, thiamine, and riboflavin from the flour, which support metabolism and energy production.

Here’s a breakdown of the health benefits of Pullman Bread in a table format:

Pullman Bread recipe From OoohDelish!

Pullman Bread Recipe

Pullman Bread, also known as Pain de Mie, is a classic bread with a soft, tender crumb and perfectly square shape. Baked in a Pullman loaf pan, this bread is enriched with ingredients like butter, milk, and sugar to give it a mild sweetness and smooth texture. The result is a versatile loaf perfect for sandwiches, toast, or as a base for gourmet dishes like bread pudding. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just beginning, this Pullman Bread Recipe delivers a beautiful loaf with fine, even slices every time.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Proofing Time 1 hour hr 30 minutes mins

Total Time 2 hours hrs 20 minutes mins

Course Bread

Cuisine American

Servings 4

Calories 180 kcal

Equipment

• Pullman loaf pan (9x4x4 inches, with lid)
• Mixing bowls (one for dry ingredients, one for wet)
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Dough hook or spatula
• Rolling pin (optional, if needed for shaping the dough)
• Oven
• Cooling rack

Ingredients

  

• 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 tsp salt
• 2 tbsp sugar
• 1 packet 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
• 1 cup warm milk about 110°F/45°C
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter softened
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 large egg optional, for a slightly richer dough
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil for greasing the pan

Instructions

 

• Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.
• Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
• Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Add the activated yeast mixture, butter, and water to the dry ingredients. Mix until the dough starts to come together. If using an egg, add it at this point. You can use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment or mix by hand with a spatula.
• Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until it's smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer to knead the dough for 5-6 minutes on medium speed.
• First Rise: Form the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly oiled bowl. Cover with a damp towel or plastic wrap and allow the dough to rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.
• Shape the Dough: Punch the dough down to release air. Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and roll it into a rectangular shape that will fit into your Pullman loaf pan. Roll the dough tightly, ensuring it fits the pan's dimensions.
• Second Rise: Place the dough into the oiled Pullman loaf pan. Cover the pan with a lid or plastic wrap and let the dough rise for another 30-40 minutes until it has risen to about 1/2 inch below the top of the pan.
• Preheat the Oven: While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Bake: Place the loaf in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. The bread should have a golden brown crust, and when tapped, it should sound hollow. If using a Pullman pan with a lid, remove the lid for the final 5-10 minutes to allow the top to brown.
• Cool: Remove the loaf from the pan and let it cool on a wire rack. Allow it to cool completely before slicing.

Notes

Storage: Pullman bread can be stored at room temperature for 2-3 days in an airtight container or wrapped in a clean kitchen towel. For longer storage, slice and freeze the bread for up to 1 month.
Flour Substitution: For a slightly denser loaf, you can replace up to 1/2 of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour.
Optional Add-ins: You can add herbs, seeds, or dried fruit to the dough for variations in flavor.
Egg-Free Version: If you prefer an egg-free recipe, simply omit the egg and adjust the water content slightly if needed.

 

Keyword Enriched Bread Recipe, Pain de Mie, Pullman Bread Recipe, Soft Bread Recipe, Soft Crumb Bread, Square Bread Loaf

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Pullman bread is an all-purpose loaf. Once you’ve got the basic recipe down, there are plenty of variations to explore. If you want a more savory twist, try adding herbs, like rosemary or thyme, to the dough, or add sunflower or sesame seeds for crunch and flavor. You can also use dried fruit, like raisins or currants, to make a slightly sweeter version that’s great for snacking or breakfast.

For serving, Pullman bread is perfect for traditional sandwich-making or toasted with a smear of butter and jam. The slices are beautifully uniform and easy to cut, making them ideal for presentation at brunches or gatherings. You can even slice it into thicker pieces for a hearty, toasted snack.

Texture and Flavor of Pullman Bread recipe

When baked correctly, Pullman bread has a soft, fine crumb that simultaneously has both an airy and dense texture. Its texture is perfect for both savory and sweet uses. You can use it as a sandwich bread, as it stands up to a range of fillings. The Pullman Bread Recipe produces a pleasantly sweet loaf, thanks to the sugar and butter, but not cloyingly so.
The soft, tender texture paired with its mild flavor makes Pullman bread a great accompaniment to breakfast spreads or as a base for grilled cheese sandwiches and other favorite lunchtime options.

FAQs: Pullman Bread recipe

Share Your Twist!

We’d love to hear your version of Pullman Bread recipe ! What special ingredients or techniques do you use to make it uniquely yours? Share your tips and experiences in the comments below, and let’s inspire each other to create even more delicious meals!

References

Amish White Bread Recipe

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