Making bread can be a time consumer endeavor. Of course you can use a stand mixer but then you have to still knead it by hand, which takes time and hand strength. But using a bread machine simplifies the process. I've never liked the shape of the bread that comes out of most bread machines- they tend to look like a bullet- so I use my machine on the dough cycle. This cycle will mix the dough, knead it and give it it's first rise. The whole cycle takes about 1.5 hours. Which means that I can do other things around the house and not have to worry about the dough.
The best recipe I've found for the best bread machine bread I found on the internet. Right now I'm not sure which website so I'll just post the recipe here.
This recipe makes 2 loaves.
To make the best bread machine bread you will need:
1 c warm water
1/4 cup melted butter
1/3 c milk
3 3/4 cups flour (I use bread flour for a fluffier bread)
1/4 c sugar
1 t salt
1 1/2 t yeast
Add the ingredients to the bread pan in the order listed. Set the machine on the dough cycle. Once the cycle is done, flatten the dough out, cut it into 2 pieces then form each piece into a loaf shape. Preheat the oven to 350ยบ. Place the loaf pans on top of the stove, covered with a towel and let rise just until the dough is at the top of the pan. Then bake for approximately 20 minutes.
TIPS
1. Depending on the yeast you use you. might have to proof your yeast first. To do this fill your measuring cup with warm water, add the sugar and the yeast. Gently stir. Now let this mixture sit for at least 5 minutes until the water gets bubbly.
2. If you have to proof your yeast first then add that to the machine, then the milk the flour and the salt last.
3. I use cast iron loaf pans so I always butter them first. Makes taking the bread out so much easier.
4. When the bread come out of the oven and you take it out of the pan, be sure to cool it on a rack so the bottom doesn't get soggy.
Delicious homemade bread is the perfect accompaniment to soups, chili and other cold weather food. And of course don't forget TOAST!
Do have a favorite bread recipe or maybe a cherished memory of being in the kitchen with the smell of fresh baked wafting through? Be sure to share in the comments.
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