Pullman’s loaf, also known as Pullman bread or simply Pullman, has a fascinating history that dates back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The bread was named after the Pullman Company, a prominent American railroad car manufacturer, which played a crucial role in its creation. During the golden age of rail travel, the company sought a way to ensure that bread served on their trains remained fresh and wouldn’t crumble during long journeys. This led to the development of a special bread pan with a sliding lid, which compressed the dough while baking, resulting in a perfectly rectangular and compact loaf. The Pullman loaf became popular not only among train travelers but also in households, restaurants, and bakeries across the United States and beyond.
In terms of flavor profile, Pullman bread is renowned for its uniform texture, mild sweetness, and soft, tender crumb. The bread’s distinct rectangular shape and consistent slices make it ideal for sandwiches, toasts, and canapés. Its flavor is subtle yet satisfying, making it a versatile choice that pairs well with both sweet and savory toppings.
Over the years, Pullman bread has retained its popularity, beloved by many for its practicality and versatility. Its neat slices and compact shape have made it a go-to choice for tea sandwiches, finger sandwiches, and party appetizers. Additionally, it has become a staple in many breakfast establishments and is widely used for classic sandwiches like grilled cheese, club sandwiches, and French toast.
To serve Pullman’s loaf, one can enjoy it simply sliced and served with butter or jam for a delightful breakfast option. Alternatively, it can be used as a base for hearty sandwiches, where it provides a sturdy yet soft foundation to hold various fillings. The bread’s shape and consistent slices also lend themselves well to elegant tea-time sandwiches, making it a favorite in afternoon tea settings. Whether it’s used for a quick snack, a classic breakfast, or an elaborate afternoon tea, Pullman’s loaf continues to be a beloved choice for its history, flavor, and practicality.
Pullman bread loaf
Ingredients
- 3 ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast
- 1 ¼ cups warm water 110°F
- ¼ Cup whole milk
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter melted
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 ½ tsp salt
Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine the warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the water and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Create a well in the center of the flour mixture.
- Pour the activated yeast mixture, warm milk, and melted butter into the well of the flour. Stir everything together until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Grease a Pullman bread loaf pan (13x4x4 inches) with butter or cooking spray.
- Shape the dough into a rectangle that fits the length of the Pullman pan. Place the dough into the pan and cover it loosely with a clean kitchen towel.
- Allow the dough to rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Once the dough has risen, remove the kitchen towel and slide the lid onto the Pullman pan.
- Bake the bread in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes. Remove the lid for the last 5 minutes to allow the top to brown.
- Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
