Are you craving the comforting aroma of freshly baked bread but intimidated by complicated recipes? Then look no further! This sour cream bread recipe is incredibly easy, requiring minimal kneading and yielding a loaf that's wonderfully soft and tangy. It's the perfect addition to any meal, a delightful snack, or the star of a simple yet satisfying breakfast. This recipe is a great example of delicious dishes you can create with homemade cooking, even if you're short on time. It's one of those quick dinner ideas that also happens to be incredibly healthy.
Ingredients:
- 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm water (105-115°F)
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup sour cream
- 3-3 ½ cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
Instructions:
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy. This ensures your yeast is active and ready to work its magic, leading to a perfectly risen loaf.
Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients
Stir in the melted butter and sour cream until well combined. The sour cream adds incredible moisture and a delightful tang to the bread, creating a truly unique flavor profile.
Step 3: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing with a wooden spoon or your hands until a soft dough forms. Don't worry about overmixing at this stage; just bring it all together.
Step 4: Knead the Dough (Lightly!)
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for just 1-2 minutes. This bread recipe is designed for minimal effort, so a quick knead is all you need. Too much kneading can result in a tough loaf.
Step 5: First Rise
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size. A warm oven (turned off) can be a great place for this.
Step 6: Shape and Second Rise
Punch down the dough to release the air. Shape it into a loaf and place it in a greased 9x5 inch loaf pan. Cover and let rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until almost doubled.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the bread for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 200°F (93°C). Use a bread thermometer for accurate results.
Step 8: Cool and Enjoy
Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents it from becoming soggy. Slice and enjoy your delicious homemade sour cream bread!
Tips for the Best Sour Cream Bread:
- Use fresh yeast: This is crucial for optimal rising.
- Don't over-knead: A slightly sticky dough is okay. Over-kneading leads to a tough loaf.
- Check for doneness: Use a bread thermometer for accurate baking time.
- Let it cool completely: This allows the crumb to set properly.
Variations:
- Add herbs: Incorporate fresh rosemary, thyme, or oregano into the dough for an aromatic twist.
- Sweeten it up: Add ½ cup of sugar and ½ cup of raisins or cranberries for a sweeter bread.
- Use different flours: Experiment with whole wheat flour or a combination of all-purpose and whole wheat for a more nutritious loaf.
Nutritional Information (per slice, approximate):
Calories: Around 150-200 Fat: 5-8g Protein: 4-6g Carbohydrates: 25-35g
This easy recipe provides a great foundation for experimenting and creating your own variations. Enjoy this delicious and comforting homemade bread! It's a perfect example of easy recipes that deliver big on flavor and satisfaction. It’s a recipe that will quickly become a staple in your weekly meal planning.