Are you a fan of that irresistible, hearty texture and nutty flavor of Dave's Killer Bread? Do you wish you could enjoy that deliciousness without the hefty price tag? Then you're in luck! This recipe is your ticket to making a fantastic Dave's Killer Bread copycat right in your own bread machine. It's easier than you think, and the result is a loaf so good, you'll be wondering why you ever bought store-bought bread again! This recipe is perfect for those looking for easy recipes, healthy meals, and quick dinner ideas – all while enjoying the satisfaction of homemade cooking. It's one of the best recipes for achieving that perfect rustic loaf.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup warm water (105-115°F)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 teaspoons honey or sugar
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 3 cups bread flour, plus more for dusting
- ½ cup whole wheat flour
- ½ cup rolled oats
- ¼ cup sunflower seeds
- ¼ cup flax seeds
- 2 tablespoons wheat bran
Instructions:
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Prepare your bread machine: Ensure your bread machine pan is clean and ready to go. This step is crucial for even baking and to avoid any sticking.
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Combine ingredients: Add the warm water, olive oil, honey (or sugar), and salt to your bread machine pan. Sprinkle the yeast over the liquid and let it sit for a minute or two to activate.
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Add dry ingredients: Add the bread flour, whole wheat flour, rolled oats, sunflower seeds, flax seeds, and wheat bran to the bread machine pan. Try to distribute the ingredients evenly.
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Select the dough cycle: Select the "dough" cycle on your bread machine. Most machines have this setting; check your machine's manual if you're unsure. This cycle will knead the dough perfectly.
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First rise: Allow the bread machine to complete the dough cycle. This usually takes around 1-1.5 hours, depending on your machine's settings. The dough should be smooth and slightly sticky.
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Shape the loaf: Carefully remove the dough from the bread machine and shape it into a round or oval loaf.
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Second rise: Place the shaped dough into a lightly greased 9x5 inch loaf pan. Cover the pan with plastic wrap and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 45-60 minutes, or until doubled in size.
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Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the loaf for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 200°F (93°C). A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
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Cool: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack before slicing and serving. This prevents the bread from becoming soggy.
Cooking Tips for the Best Loaf:
- Water temperature: Using water that's too hot or too cold can kill the yeast, resulting in a flat loaf. A thermometer is helpful for ensuring the perfect temperature.
- Flour type: You can adjust the flour ratios slightly based on your preference and the humidity in your area. If your dough seems too sticky, add a tablespoon or two of extra bread flour.
- Seeds and grains: Feel free to experiment with other seeds and grains, like pumpkin seeds, sesame seeds, or cracked wheat. Let your creativity guide you!
Delicious Variations:
- Spiced Dave's Killer Bread: Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon and ½ teaspoon of nutmeg to the dough for a warm, spiced flavor.
- Hearty Seed Loaf: Increase the amount of seeds to create an even heartier loaf packed with added nutrition.
Nutritional Information (per slice, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 150-180 Protein: 5-7g Fiber: 3-4g
Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
This delicious homemade bread is perfect for sandwiches, toast, or simply enjoyed on its own. It's a healthy and flavorful alternative to store-bought bread, and a testament to the joy of homemade cooking. Enjoy!