Are you dreaming of warm, crusty bread but intimidated by the kneading and proofing? Fear not! This recipe uses your bread machine to do all the heavy lifting, resulting in a delicious, homemade loaf with minimal effort. It's the perfect recipe for busy weeknights, beginner bakers, and anyone who appreciates the simple joy of freshly baked bread. This easy recipe is a testament to the power of homemade cooking and offers a delicious alternative to store-bought loaves. Let's get baking!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup warm water (105-115°F)
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey or sugar
- 2 ¼ cups King Arthur Flour bread flour (or all-purpose flour)
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients
Ensure all your ingredients are at room temperature, except for the warm water. This helps the yeast activate properly. Measure all ingredients accurately using a kitchen scale for best results.
Step 2: Loading the Bread Machine
Add ingredients to your bread machine pan in the order specified by your machine's manual. Generally, liquids go in first, followed by dry ingredients. Many machines suggest adding yeast to a separate dispenser.
Step 3: Selecting the Setting
Select the "basic" or "white bread" setting on your bread machine. This typically takes around 3-4 hours.
Step 4: Baking and Cooling
Once the baking cycle is complete, carefully remove the loaf from the pan. Let it cool completely on a wire rack before slicing and serving. This prevents a soggy bottom and ensures the best texture.
Tips for Success:
- Fresh Yeast: Use fresh yeast for the best results. Check the expiration date to ensure it's still active.
- Water Temperature: The water temperature is crucial for yeast activation. Too hot will kill the yeast; too cold will hinder its activity.
- Flour Type: King Arthur Flour is known for its quality, but all-purpose flour can be substituted if needed.
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing can lead to a tough loaf. The bread machine does the mixing, so just trust the process.
- Cooling is Key: Allow the bread to cool completely to prevent a gummy interior.
Variations:
- Herb Bread: Add 1-2 tablespoons of dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano to the dough.
- Garlic Bread: Add 1-2 cloves of minced garlic along with the herbs.
- Sweet Bread: Increase the honey or sugar to 3-4 tablespoons for a sweeter loaf. Consider adding cinnamon or raisins.
Nutritional Information (per slice, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150-200 (depending on loaf size and variations)
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 30-40g
- Protein: Approximately 5-7g
- Fat: Approximately 2-4g
This King Arthur Flour bread machine recipe is perfect for those seeking quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. It's a delicious and satisfying addition to any meal, from a simple soup to a hearty stew. Enjoy the delightful aroma and taste of freshly baked bread made with ease! Homemade cooking doesn't get much simpler than this. This recipe is one of the best recipes for consistently great bread. It's a simple recipe that will become a staple in your kitchen. Happy baking!