Butter Bread for Beginners: Easy Recipe for Delicious Results

 

Butter Bread for Beginners: Easy Recipe for Delicious Results

If you're new to baking bread and want to start with a simple and foolproof recipe, look no further than this butter bread recipe. With just a few basic ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a delicious homemade loaf of buttery goodness that will impress your family and friends. So, let's get started on this easy bread-baking adventure!

Ingredients:

• 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup warm milk
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• Additional melted butter for brushing

Instructions:

1. Activate the Yeast:

   • In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the milk mixture and let it sit for about 5 minutes until foamy. This step ensures that the yeast is active and will help the bread dough rise.

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:

   • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Make a well in the center of the flour mixture.

3. Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients:

   • Pour the activated yeast mixture and melted butter into the well in the flour mixture. Using a wooden spoon or your hands, gradually incorporate the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until a shaggy dough forms.

4. Knead the Dough:

   • Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead it for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. This kneading process develops the gluten in the dough, giving it structure and a nice texture.

5. First Rise:

   • Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm, draft-free area for about 1-2 hours or until it doubles in size. Patience is key during this step, as a good rise ensures a light and fluffy loaf.

6. Shape the Bread:

   • Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Transfer it to a lightly floured surface and shape it into a loaf by folding the sides toward the center and rolling it tightly. Pinch the seam to seal.

7. Second Rise:

   • Place the shaped loaf onto a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover it with a kitchen towel and let it rise for another 45-60 minutes until it puffs up.

8. Preheat the Oven:

   • Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

9. Bake the Bread:

   • Once the dough has completed its second rise, brush the top of the loaf with melted butter. This step adds flavor and gives the bread a golden, shiny crust.
   • Bake the bread in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes or until it turns golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

10. Cool and Enjoy:

    • Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for a few minutes. Resist the temptation to slice into it right away, as allowing it to cool slightly will result in cleaner slices.
    • Once the bread has cooled, slice it into thick or thin slices, depending on your preference. Slather on more butter if desired, and enjoy the delicious homemade butter bread!

Tips:

• For added flavor, you can sprinkle some sesame seeds or oats on top of the loaf before baking.
• Experiment with different variations by adding herbs, cheese, or even cinnamon and raisins to the dough for a unique twist.

Now you have a simple and reliable butter bread recipe in your baking repertoire. Get ready to impress everyone with your homemade bread-making skills and savor the irresistible aroma of freshly baked bread.

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