Are you dreaming of warm, golden-brown bread with a subtly sweet honey flavor, but short on time? Then this honey bread recipe, perfectly designed for your bread machine, is your answer! This easy recipe delivers a delicious, homemade loaf with minimal effort. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekend mornings, this recipe is a staple for anyone who loves the comforting aroma and taste of freshly baked bread. Get ready to enjoy the simplest, yet most rewarding, baking experience!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup warm water (105-115°F)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons rapid rise yeast)
- 3 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 1/2 cup whole wheat flour (optional, for added nutrition)
Instructions:
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Prepare your bread machine: Ensure your bread machine is clean and ready to use. Grease the bread pan lightly with cooking spray or butter.
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Add ingredients: Add the warm water, honey, and oil to the bread pan. In a separate bowl, gently combine the salt and yeast. Add the yeast mixture, all-purpose flour, and whole wheat flour (if using) to the bread pan.
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Select the setting: Select the "basic" or "white bread" setting on your bread machine. Most machines have a setting that takes around 3 hours.
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Press start: Let the machine do its magic! Enjoy the amazing aroma filling your kitchen while the bread bakes.
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Cool and serve: Once the baking cycle is complete, carefully remove the bread from the pan and let it cool completely on a wire rack before slicing and serving. This allows the crumb to set properly.
Tips for the Perfect Honey Bread:
- Yeast is key: Make sure your yeast is fresh and active. If your yeast is old, it might not rise properly.
- Water temperature matters: The water needs to be warm, not hot. Hot water can kill the yeast.
- Don't over-knead: Bread machines handle kneading, so don't worry about it. Over-kneading can result in a tough loaf.
- Experiment with additions: Add some chopped nuts, raisins, or cinnamon chips to your bread for added flavor and texture.
Variations:
- Cinnamon Honey Bread: Add 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon to the dry ingredients for a warm, spiced bread.
- Nutty Honey Bread: Stir in 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans before adding the flour to the bread machine.
- Seeded Honey Bread: Add 1/4 cup of sunflower seeds and 1/4 cup of pumpkin seeds for added texture and healthy fats.
Nutritional Information (per slice, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Protein: 4-6g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
- Fiber: 2-3g
- Fat: 3-5g
This information is an estimate and may vary depending on the ingredients used and slice size.
This honey bread recipe is a fantastic addition to any meal, whether it's a simple breakfast, a comforting lunch, or a delightful side dish for dinner. Its easy preparation and delicious taste make it a perfect choice for both novice and experienced bakers alike. Enjoy the delicious results of your homemade baking!