Are you craving the warm, comforting aroma of freshly baked bread but intimidated by complicated recipes? Then look no further! This Fleischmann's Yeast Rapid Rise Bread recipe is your shortcut to delicious homemade goodness. It's incredibly easy, requiring minimal kneading and a surprisingly short rise time, making it perfect for even the busiest weeknights. Get ready to enjoy the taste of homemade bread without the usual hassle! This recipe is perfect for those looking for easy recipes, quick dinner ideas, and healthy meals that are also delicious dishes. It's a fantastic addition to your homemade cooking repertoire. Let's get baking!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup warm water (105-115°F)
- 2 ¼ teaspoons Fleischmann's RapidRise Yeast (1 packet)
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
Instructions:
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In a large bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar. Gently stir and let stand for 5-10 minutes, until the mixture is foamy. This step ensures your yeast is active and ready to work its magic. If it doesn't foam, your yeast might be old, and you'll need a fresh packet for best results.
Step 2: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Add the melted butter and salt to the yeast mixture. Stir to combine. Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing with a wooden spoon or spatula until a shaggy dough forms.
Step 3: Knead the Dough (Lightly!)
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for just 1-2 minutes, until the dough is smooth and slightly elastic. Remember, this is a rapid rise recipe, so minimal kneading is key.
Step 4: First Rise
Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, turning to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 15-20 minutes, or until doubled in size.
Step 5: 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 again and let rise for another 10-15 minutes, until almost doubled.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection!
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the bread for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 200°F (93°C). A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
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 warm, homemade bread! This recipe is a great example of easy and best recipes.
Tips and Variations:
- For a richer flavor: Use bread flour instead of all-purpose flour.
- Add some sweetness: Incorporate 1-2 tablespoons of honey or brown sugar into the dough.
- Herb bread: Add 1-2 tablespoons of dried herbs, such as rosemary, thyme, or oregano, to the dough.
- Garlic bread: Add minced garlic to the dough for a savory twist.
- Don't over-knead: Over-kneading will result in a tough loaf of bread.
Nutritional Information (per slice, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Protein: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 30-40g
- Fat: 3-5g
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the ingredients used.
This Fleischmann's Yeast Rapid Rise Bread recipe is a testament to how simple and rewarding homemade cooking can be. It’s a perfect recipe for beginners and experienced bakers alike, resulting in a delicious loaf perfect for sandwiches, toast, or simply enjoying on its own. So, gather your ingredients and start baking—you won't regret it! This easy recipe is a great addition to any baker's repertoire. Enjoy!