Are you craving the warm, comforting aroma of freshly baked bread but short on time? This sweet bread recipe, made entirely in your bread machine, is the perfect solution! Forget tedious kneading and precise timing; this recipe delivers a deliciously soft and subtly sweet loaf with minimal effort. It's the perfect addition to any breakfast, brunch, or afternoon tea, and it's surprisingly easy even for beginner bakers. Let's get started on this simple yet satisfying journey into homemade goodness!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup warm water (105-115°F)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1 large egg
- 3 cups bread flour
- 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Bread Machine:
Grease your bread machine pan lightly with cooking spray or butter. This prevents sticking and ensures easy removal of your beautiful bread.
Step 2: Adding Ingredients:
Add the ingredients to your bread machine pan in the order specified by your machine's instruction manual. Generally, liquids go in first, followed by dry ingredients. However, the yeast is often added last.
Step 3: Selecting the Setting:
Select the "Sweet Bread" or "Dough" setting on your bread machine. If your machine doesn’t have a specific "Sweet Bread" setting, a "Basic" or "White Bread" setting will also work. Check your machine's manual for precise instructions.
Step 4: Baking:
Press start and let the machine do its magic! The baking time will vary depending on your bread machine model, usually ranging from 3-4 hours. Resist the temptation to open the lid during the baking process, as this can affect the rising and baking.
Step 5: Cooling and Serving:
Once the baking cycle is complete, carefully remove the bread from the pan. Let it cool completely on a wire rack before slicing and serving. This allows the crumb to set and prevents a soggy loaf.
Tips for the Perfect Sweet Bread:
- Water Temperature: Ensure the water is the correct temperature (105-115°F). Too hot will kill the yeast, and too cold will hinder its activity.
- Fresh Yeast: Use fresh active dry yeast for the best results. Check the expiration date on the package.
- Flour Type: Bread flour is recommended for its higher protein content, which results in a chewier loaf. All-purpose flour can be used, but the result may be slightly less chewy.
- Adding Extras: Feel free to experiment! Raisins, cranberries, chocolate chips, or nuts can easily be added to the dry ingredients for extra flavor and texture.
Variations:
- Cinnamon Swirl: Add 1-2 teaspoons of cinnamon to the dry ingredients and swirl it into the dough after the first rise.
- Citrus Twist: Add the zest of one orange or lemon to the dry ingredients for a refreshing twist.
Nutritional Information (per slice, approximate):
This will vary depending on the size of your loaf and any additions. However, a general estimate is:
- Calories: 150-200
- Protein: 4-6g
- Carbohydrates: 30-40g
- Fat: 3-5g
This simple sweet bread recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. It's a quick dinner idea that's perfect for busy weeknights or a delightful weekend treat. Enjoy the delicious taste of homemade cooking! It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, whether you are a seasoned baker or just starting your culinary journey. The best recipes are often the simplest ones, and this sweet bread perfectly exemplifies that.