Friday, January 23, 2009

My Favorite White Bread Recipe


This is one of those recipes I don't even remember where it came from. I do know that it has been perfect from the git-go, I haven't changed anything and this is by far a family favorite around here.


This bread, which derives from an Amish recipe comes out perfect every time. I use it for plain bread but also found the sweetness of the dough makes fantastic carmel rolls.

I think my favorite thing about it is it makes two large loaves, it has a sweeter flavor and it's consistency is sturdy enough to cut and use for sandwiches without being so super heavy you feel like you are walking around with a big dough ball in your tummy. After many a years of homemade bread making (no bread machine here) this is the recipe that has been the biggest hit and has got the most..that's a keeper make it again reviews.


Ingredients

2 cups warm water (about 110 degrees on a candy thermometer)

2/3 cup sugar (1/4 cup for less sweet bread)

1 1/2 Tablespoons dry yeast

1 1/2 teaspoons salt

1/4 cup veg. oil

6 cups of flour

Heat the water in a saucepan on the stove, or microwave till near boil. Dissolve the sugar into the water and set aside till you can hold your hand on the side of the pan or bowl or stick your finger in it and it feels a bit warmer than room temp.

Pour the sugar water mixture into whatever bowl you will be making your bread in and add the yeast, mix slightly and let proof. Proof means leave it be for a few minutes and it'll bubble up and become foamy and grow in size.

Add the salt and oil to the proofed yeast mixture and combine.

Mix the flour in 1 cup at a time.

Knead a good 5 minutes on a floured surface, usually doesn't require too much flour, until the dough is nice and elasticy.

Place the kneaded dough ball in a lightly oiled bowl flipping the dough over so it's oiled on the top as well, cover and let rise till doubled. Time varys depending on the warmth of your home and the yeast.

Once dough has doubled punch down and knead again for a couple of minutes. Divide the dough in half and place in two greased loaf pans.

Cover and allow to rise till a couple inches above the top of the pan.

Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes. It will be golden brown on top.

Allow to cool some and watch your husband and children fight over who gets the heel. Yet those never get eaten in store bought bread. Hmmm

Spread some butter and apple butter on a slice and have yourself a major yum moment.

Enjoy!

Cowgirl Lady





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