Delicious Homemade Panini Bread | Easy, Soft

Recipe Overview 🍽️

This homemade panini bread recipe is perfect for creating delicious and customizable sandwiches. With a simple preparation process and basic ingredients, you’ll achieve soft, lightly golden rolls that are ideal for your meals or a quick lunch. In just one hour, you can enjoy these homemade delights without the additives found in store-bought versions.

Prep Time	Total	Servings
15 Min	1 hour (including rising time)	8 panini rolls

History of the Recipe ✍️

The homemade panini bread, a classic Italian sandwich, is traditionally served on ciabatta or baguette bread, but homemade panini bread provides an irresistibly soft and customizable option. This recipe honors the tradition while simplifying it for home bakers.

Ingredients 🛒

listed in the order of use in the procedure:

Ingredients 🛒
For the dough:
- 500 g all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp instant yeast
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp softened butter
- 1 glass of milk (approximately 200 ml)
For the Leaven:
- 1 glass of warm milk (200 ml)
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tbsp yeast

Steps (How to Make ) 🥣

Prepare the Leaven:
In a bowl, mix 1 glass of warm milk, 1 tbsp sugar, and 1 tbsp yeast.
Let it sit for 10 minutes until frothy.
Make the Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt.
Add the prepared leaven and softened butter.
Gradually add 1 glass of milk while kneading until a soft, elastic dough forms.
Let It Rise:
Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm place for 40 minutes or until doubled in size.
Shape the Rolls:
Divide the dough into 8 equal portions.
Shape each portion into an oval or rectangular roll.
Second Proofing:
Place the rolls on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
Cover and let them rise for another 15-20 minutes.
Bake the Panini Rolls:
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.

Chef Tips 👨‍🍳

Use warm milk (not hot) for the leaven to activate the yeast effectively.
Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic for the best texture.

Possible Variations 🎭

Replace 50 g of flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber.
Add dried herbs like oregano or rosemary for a flavored bread.

Bake Time 🔥

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and bake the Homemade Panini Bread rolls for 12 to 15 minutes, or until cooked through. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes to make sure they don’t overcook. The rolls should have a soft inside and a slightly crispy outside, making them perfect for grilling or topping with your favorite toppings. If you prefer a darker crust, you can extend the cooking time by 1 to 2 minutes, but be careful not to dry them out.

How to Store 🥡

Freshly baked bread rolls with golden-brown crusts on a baking tray.

How to Store Homemade Panini Bread

Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Freezer: Freeze in a sealed bag for up to 1 month. Thaw and reheat before use.

How Long Do They Stay Fresh?

Best consumed fresh, but can last up to 2 days at room temperature or 1 month frozen.

Food and Drink Pairings 🥂

Pair Homemade Panini Bread with grilled vegetables, cheese, or deli meats for classic panini sandwiches. Serve alongside a light salad and iced tea for a refreshing meal.

Presentation Suggestion 🍽️

Slice the Homemade Panini Bread rolls lengthwise, grill lightly, and serve with fillings of your choice. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for an elegant touch, and pair with a side of mixed greens or a colorful salad for a complete meal.

Why It’s Healthy 💚

Made with simple, natural ingredients, this bread is free from the preservatives and additives often found in industrial products. It can be easily customized by adding whole grains or seeds for extra nutritional value. Its soft texture and artisanal quality make it a healthier and more delicious option for preparing your favorite sandwiches.