Are you craving a warm, comforting treat that's incredibly easy to make? Look no further than this simple butter bread recipe! This delightful homemade bread is perfect for breakfast, a cozy afternoon snack, or even a side dish to complement your favorite soup or stew. It's a delicious and satisfying option for those looking for easy recipes and healthy meals without sacrificing flavor. Get ready to experience the joy of homemade cooking with this quick dinner idea! This recipe is one of the best recipes you'll find for its simplicity and amazing taste.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm water (105-115°F)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for extra richness)
Instructions:
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Gently stir and let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy. This step ensures your yeast is alive and ready to work its magic, leading to a beautifully risen bread.
Step 2: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Add the melted butter and olive oil (if using) to the yeast mixture. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing with a wooden spoon or spatula until a shaggy dough forms.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time. Don't over-knead, as this can result in a tough loaf.
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 the dough rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size. A warm oven (turned off) is a great place for this.
Step 5: Shape and Second Rise
Punch down the dough to release the air. Shape it into a round loaf or a rectangular shape, depending on your preference. Place the shaped dough in a greased 9x5 inch loaf pan or on a baking sheet. Cover and let rise for another 30 minutes.
Step 6: Bake
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). Use a thermometer to ensure it's fully baked.
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. This allows the internal structure to set, resulting in a better texture. Slice and enjoy your delicious homemade butter bread!
Tips and Variations:
- For a richer flavor: Add a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup to the dough.
- Add some herbs: Incorporate fresh rosemary or thyme into the dough for an aromatic twist.
- Make it cheesy: Sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top before baking.
- Use different flours: Experiment with whole wheat flour or a blend of all-purpose and whole wheat flour for a healthier version.
Nutritional Information (per slice, approximate):
- Calories: 150-200
- Protein: 4-5g
- Fat: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the ingredients used and portion size. Remember to always check your specific ingredient labels for accurate nutritional content. Enjoy your delicious and easy homemade bread!