How Many Slices of Bread Are in a Loaf

Whether you’re buying a store-bought loaf of bread or making a fresh loaf in the oven, you might wonder – how many pieces of bread are in a loaf? Well, this is a surprisingly common question. But the answer’s pretty simple. Typically, a loaf yields between 20 and 24 slices.

Hi! My name is Michelle, and I seriously love bread. I love a slice of toast or a bagel for breakfast, and there’s nothing quite like bread and an olive-based dip for an appetizer. There’s an endless possibility for bread, so knowing how many slices are in a loaf is important.


Today, we’re talking all about bread. Sure, the answer to how many slices of bread are in a loaf is pretty clear. However, there are a few things you need to consider. Below, you will find out everything you need to know about bread slices in a loaf.

Who’s ready to discuss bread?

How Many Slices of Bread Are in a Loaf

For the most part, a traditional loaf of bread will render around 20 to 24 pieces. That is including the end of the bread, otherwise known as the heel. (Don’t toss the heel – use it for toast, and you will hardly tell the difference from the rest of the loaf).

When you’re buying store-bought loaves, the quickest way to know how many slices are in the package is to simply look at the nutritional content on the back. Here, you will be able to see the contents of the bread itself and how many pieces are in the loaf. 

Of course, some things can change the number of slices of bread in a loaf. Let’s take a closer look at some finer details that can change the final result.

Brands

Every company has its way of doing things. So, one brand may cut its slices thinner or thicker than the competition. So, one brand of white bread may give you 22 pieces while another brand renders 26 pieces.

Again, the best thing to do is simply check the packaging to determine exactly how many pieces you’re getting in the loaf.

Type of Bread

Perhaps the biggest impact on the final bread count is the type of bread. Some kinds of bread – such as sourdough or wholemeal – crumble easily. These types of bread are more challenging to cut and can’t be cut into thinner slices.

Only being able to cut into thicker slices, you end up with fewer pieces per loaf. For example, a sourdough loaf can have as little as 12 to 16 slices, while a thinly cut white loaf renders up to 26 slices. 

Size of the Loaf

The size of the loaf also plays a big role in the overall bread count. While the “standard” sandwich size bread loaf will have 20 to 24 slices, a larger loaf – such as the case with Texas toast – may have fewer slices altogether (but thicker cuts).

The size of the loaf is impacted further when going the homemade route. For instance, someone may prefer to create smaller slices of bread if they live alone, while someone with a larger family may create an extra-large loaf. Obviously, the number of slices will be altered.

FAQs

For the most part, loaves of bread are going to have around the same amount of slices. If you’re still curious about how many slices of bread are in a loaf, then keep reading. Below are some frequently asked questions you will want to check out.

How many slices of bread are in a 16 oz loaf?

If you are dealing with a 16-ounce loaf of bread, otherwise known as a “standard weight loave,” then you should have 16 or 17 slices. 

What is the industry standard for the number of slices in a loaf of bread?

It’s true – there is an industry standard for the number of bread slices in a loaf, and most companies adhere to it. That is why most packages of standard bread will include 18 pieces of bread with two end pieces (heels), amounting to 20 slices per loaf.

How many slices are in a Sara Lee loaf of bread?

I love Sara Lee bread, and this company follows the industry standard, meaning that there are typically 20 slices of bread in a Sara Lee loaf of bread.

How many slices are in a 9-inch loaf pan?

If you’re baking homemade bread in a 9-inch loaf pan, you will typically end up with around 16 slices of bread.

Final Thoughts

Bread fanatics, gather around – the answer to how many slices of bread are in a loaf is pretty simple, with traditional loaves rendering between 20 and 24 pieces. However, the type of bread and size of the loaf can alter this ever so slightly.

How many slices of bread did you think are in a loaf?

About Michelle
I have been a lover of sweets since day one. This led me on a self-taught baking journey starting at the age of 13. It's been over 10 years since the start of my baking adventures, and I’ve learned a lot along the way. Now, people rave about my delectable treats, whether it’s a chocolate cake or a strawberry crepe.

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