Are you craving warm, crusty bread but intimidated by traditional bread making? Then this air fryer bread recipe is for you! Forget hours of kneading and proofing; this method delivers perfectly golden-brown, fluffy bread in a fraction of the time. It's a fantastic addition to any meal, perfect for dipping in soup, enjoying with butter, or even making delicious sandwiches. This quick dinner idea is also a healthy meal option, perfect for busy weeknights. Let's get baking!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup warm water (105-115°F)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
Get Started:
- In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy. This activates the yeast, a crucial step for a successful loaf. If the yeast doesn't foam, it might be inactive, and you'll need a fresh batch.
Mix and Knead:
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Add olive oil, salt, and 2 cups of flour to the yeast mixture. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.
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Gradually add the remaining flour, one cup at a time, mixing until a soft dough comes together. The dough will be slightly sticky, that’s okay!
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Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 2-3 minutes. This develops the gluten, resulting in a chewier texture. You don't need to knead excessively; a quick knead is sufficient for this recipe.
Rise and Shape:
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Lightly grease a large bowl and place the dough inside. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for about 30-45 minutes, or until doubled in size. The rising time might vary depending on the temperature of your environment.
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Punch down the dough to release the air. Shape the dough into a round or oval loaf.
Air Fry the Bread:
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Lightly grease your air fryer basket. Place the shaped dough in the basket.
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Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 200°F (93°C). You may need to adjust cooking time depending on your air fryer model.
Cool and Serve:
- Carefully remove the bread from the air fryer and let it cool slightly on a wire rack before slicing and serving. Resist the urge to cut into it immediately; allow it to cool to achieve the best texture and prevent a soggy interior.
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Bread:
- Yeast is Key: Use fresh active dry yeast for the best results.
- Don't Overknead: Overkneading can result in tough bread.
- Check for Doneness: Use a food thermometer to ensure the bread is cooked through.
- Experiment with Flavors: Add herbs, spices, or cheese to the dough for variations.
Variations:
- Garlic Herb Bread: Add 1-2 cloves minced garlic and 1 tablespoon of dried herbs (such as rosemary, thyme, or oregano) to the dough.
- Cheesy Bread: Mix in ½ cup of shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese.
- Sweet Bread: Add 2 tablespoons of sugar and a teaspoon of cinnamon to the dough.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Protein: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
- Fat: 3-5g
This easy bread recipe is a game-changer for busy weeknights and is a delicious alternative to store-bought bread. Enjoy the delightful aroma and satisfying taste of freshly baked, homemade bread without the fuss! Making bread doesn't have to be a complicated process. Give this recipe a try and discover the joy of homemade cooking.