Classic White Bread Loaf Baking Mad from www.bakingmad.com
Introduction
Bread is a staple food that has been around for centuries. There's nothing quite like the smell of freshly baked bread, and nothing beats the taste of a warm slice of bread with butter. Making bread from scratch may seem intimidating, but it's actually a straightforward process. In this article, we'll take you through the steps to make a delicious bread loaf from scratch.
Ingredients
The ingredients you'll need to make a bread loaf are:
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon active dry yeast
1 tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup warm water
2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
Step 1: Mix the Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix together the flour, sugar, salt, and yeast. Add the warm water and olive oil, and stir until the dough comes together.
Step 2: Knead the Dough
Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes. The dough should be smooth and elastic.
Step 3: Let the Dough Rise
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about an hour. The dough should double in size.
Step 4: Shape the Dough
Punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf. Place the loaf in a greased bread pan and let it rise again for about 30 minutes.
Step 5: Bake the Bread
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the bread for 30-35 minutes or until it's golden brown on top.
Step 6: Let the Bread Cool
Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, transfer the bread to a wire rack to cool completely.
Nutrition
One slice of this bread loaf contains approximately:
Calories: 120
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 2g
Sodium: 201mg
Potassium: 47mg
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 1g
Tips for Success
Here are some tips to ensure your bread loaf turns out perfectly:
Use warm water, not hot or cold water.
Be patient during the rising process. The dough needs time to develop and rise properly.
Knead the dough well. This helps to develop the gluten in the flour, which gives the bread its structure.
Don't overbake the bread. It should be golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Conclusion
Making bread from scratch is a satisfying and rewarding experience. With a few simple ingredients and some patience, you can create a delicious bread loaf that's perfect for sandwiches, toast, or just enjoying on its own. Give this recipe a try, and you might never go back to store-bought bread again!
