Are you ready to elevate your homemade bread game? Using powdered milk in bread recipes is a secret weapon for achieving incredibly soft, fluffy, and flavorful loaves. It adds a subtle sweetness, enhances the crust's color, and contributes to a wonderfully moist crumb. This isn't your grandma's bread recipe – it's a modern twist on a classic, perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Whether you're a seasoned baker or just starting your culinary journey, these easy recipes are sure to impress. Let's get baking!
Why Use Powdered Milk in Bread?
Before diving into the recipes, let's explore the magic of powdered milk in baking. This ingredient isn't just a filler; it offers several benefits:
- Enhanced Flavor: Powdered milk adds a subtle sweetness and richness that complements the bread's taste.
- Improved Texture: It contributes to a softer, more tender crumb, and a slightly crispier crust.
- Increased Moisture: Powdered milk helps retain moisture, resulting in bread that stays fresh longer.
- Nutritional Boost: It adds extra protein and calcium to your homemade loaf.
Simple Milk Bread Recipe (Basic)
This recipe is a fantastic starting point, perfect for beginners. It's quick, easy, and produces a delicious, versatile loaf.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup warm water (105-115°F)
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¼ cup powdered milk
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 3 ½ - 4 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
Instructions:
- Activate the Yeast: In a large bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: Add the salt, powdered milk, and softened butter to the yeast mixture. Stir until well combined.
- Add Flour Gradually: Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing with a wooden spoon or your hands until a shaggy dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic. Add more flour if the dough is too sticky.
- 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 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
- 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.
- Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 200°F (93°C).
- Cool: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Delicious Variations:
- Herb Bread: Add 1-2 tablespoons of your favorite dried herbs (rosemary, thyme, oregano) to the dough.
- Sweet Bread: Increase the sugar to ¼ cup and add ½ cup raisins or cranberries.
- Garlic Bread: Add 2-3 cloves of minced garlic to the dough.
Nutritional Information (per slice, approximate):
- Calories: 150-200
- Protein: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
- Fat: 4-6g
This recipe offers a quick and delicious way to enjoy homemade bread. The addition of powdered milk ensures a consistently soft and flavorful result, making it a perfect choice for both beginners and experienced bakers. Experiment with different variations and enjoy the satisfaction of making your own delicious, healthy bread at home. Happy baking!