Are you dreaming of warm, crusty bread fresh from your oven, but intimidated by the idea of kneading dough? Fear not! This easy KitchenAid bread recipe simplifies the process, letting your trusty stand mixer do the heavy lifting. Whether you're a baking novice or a seasoned pro looking for a quick and delicious weeknight option, this recipe delivers incredible results with minimal effort. Get ready to enjoy the aroma of homemade bread and the satisfaction of creating something truly special!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup warm water (105-115°F)
- 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt
Instructions:
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In the bowl of your KitchenAid stand mixer, combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until the yeast is foamy. This ensures your yeast is alive and ready to work its magic.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
Add the olive oil and 2 cups of the flour to the yeast mixture. Using the dough hook attachment, mix on low speed until just combined. Gradually add the remaining flour, one cup at a time, mixing until a shaggy dough forms.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
Increase the mixer speed to medium and knead for 5-7 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a tablespoon or two of flour at a time until it comes together nicely.
Step 4: First Rise
Lightly grease a large bowl. Place the dough in the bowl, turning to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 1-1 ½ hours, or until doubled in size.
Step 5: Shape and Second Rise
Punch down the dough to release the air. Shape the dough into a round or oval loaf. Place the shaped dough in a greased 9x5 inch loaf pan. Cover the pan with plastic wrap and let rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until almost doubled.
Step 6: Bake the Bread
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). A simple way to check for doneness is to tap the bottom of the loaf; it should sound hollow.
Step 7: 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. Slice and enjoy your delicious homemade bread!
Tips for Perfect KitchenAid Bread:
- Water Temperature: Make sure your water is the correct temperature. Too hot will kill the yeast, too cold will prevent it from activating properly.
- Flour Type: You can experiment with different types of flour, such as bread flour, for a chewier loaf.
- Don't Overknead: Overkneading can result in a tough loaf. Stick to the recommended kneading time.
- Proofing Environment: A warm, draft-free place is ideal for proofing the dough.
Variations:
- Herb Bread: Add 1-2 tablespoons of dried herbs, such as rosemary or thyme, to the dough.
- Sweet Bread: Add ½ cup of sugar and ½ cup of raisins or other dried fruit.
- Garlic Bread: Brush the baked loaf with garlic butter.
Nutritional Information (per slice, approximate):
- Calories: 150-200
- Protein: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 30-40g
- Fat: 2-4g
This recipe is a great addition to your collection of easy recipes and healthy meals. Enjoy this quick dinner idea – perfect for homemade cooking! Making bread at home is easier than you think and provides an unparalleled sense of accomplishment. Try this recipe and experience the joy of baking delicious dishes!