Are you craving the warm, comforting aroma of freshly baked bread but short on time? This spelt bread machine recipe is your answer! It's a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional wheat bread, packed with nutty flavor and a satisfyingly chewy texture. Forget complicated kneading and lengthy proving times – this recipe lets your bread machine do the hard work, leaving you with a golden-brown loaf perfect for sandwiches, toast, or simply enjoying on its own. This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and provides a healthy and delicious meal option. It's one of the best recipes for homemade cooking that delivers fantastic results every time.
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups warm water (105-115°F)
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cups spelt flour, plus more for dusting
- ½ cup whole wheat flour (optional, for a richer flavor)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Bread Machine: Grease your bread machine pan lightly with olive oil or baking spray. This prevents sticking and ensures easy removal of your finished loaf.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the warm water to the bread machine pan, followed by the yeast and honey/maple syrup. Let it sit for a few minutes to allow the yeast to activate – you should see some frothing.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Add the salt, olive oil, spelt flour, and whole wheat flour (if using) to the bread machine pan. Make sure the ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Select the Setting: Choose the "basic" or "white bread" setting on your bread machine. The exact time will vary depending on your machine, so consult your user manual.
- Let it Bake: Press "start" and let the bread machine do its magic! Resist the urge to open the lid during the baking process, as this can affect the rising and baking of the bread.
- Cool and Enjoy: 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 bread to set properly and prevents it from becoming gummy.
Tips for the Best Spelt Bread:
- Fresh Yeast is Key: Using fresh active dry yeast ensures a successful rise. Check the expiration date before starting.
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing the dough can lead to a tough loaf. Let the bread machine handle the mixing process.
- Adjust Liquid: Depending on your flour and the humidity level, you may need to add a tablespoon or two of water if the dough seems too dry. Conversely, if the dough seems too wet, add a tablespoon or two of flour.
- Experiment with Seeds: Add a tablespoon of sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, or flax seeds to the dough for added texture and nutrition.
Variations:
- Herb Bread: Add 1-2 tablespoons of dried herbs, such as rosemary, thyme, or oregano, for a fragrant and flavorful twist.
- Sweet Spelt Bread: Increase the honey or maple syrup to ¼ cup and add ½ cup of raisins or chopped nuts for a delicious sweet bread.
- Gluten-Free Adaptation: While spelt contains gluten, you could experiment with a blend of gluten-free flours, but you might need to adjust the liquid amounts to achieve the correct consistency.
Nutritional Information (per slice, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 100-120
- Protein: Approximately 4-5 grams
- Fiber: Approximately 2-3 grams
This spelt bread machine recipe is a simple, healthy, and delicious addition to your weekly meal plan. It's a fantastic way to enjoy homemade bread without the fuss, providing a quick dinner idea or a wholesome addition to any meal. It’s one of the best recipes for healthy meals, perfect for those looking for easy recipes and delicious dishes. Enjoy!