Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, there’s something wonderfully therapeutic about the art of bread-making. The warm aroma that fills your home, the satisfying feeling of kneading dough, and the sense of accomplishment when a perfectly golden loaf emerges from the oven – it’s all part of the magic of baking. Today, we’re sharing a recipe for Miracle Bread that is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. This versatile bread is simple to make, requires minimal ingredients, and comes out beautifully every time. Let’s get started!
Title: Miracle Bread
Ingredients:
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Optional toppings: sesame seeds, poppy seeds, flaxseeds
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water and honey. Sprinkle the yeast over the mixture and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until foamy.
2. Add the olive oil to the yeast mixture and stir to combine.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 10-15 minutes, until the dough is smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour as needed.
5. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
7. Punch down the risen dough and transfer it to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Shape the dough into a round or oval loaf, as desired.
8. If using toppings, brush the top of the loaf with water and sprinkle with your choice of seeds.
9. Cover the shaped dough loosely with the kitchen towel and let it rise for an additional 30 minutes.
10. Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the loaf is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
11. Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing.
Slice, serve, and enjoy your freshly baked Miracle Bread! This bread is perfect for sandwiches, toast, or simply enjoyed on its own with a smear of butter. Feel free to customize it by adding herbs, cheese, or olives to the dough for a unique twist. Get creative and make this easy and delicious bread a regular guest at your table. Happy baking!