When it comes to delicious baked goods, few things can beat the aroma and flavor of a freshly baked bread. Today, we have a special recipe inspired by the legendary baker himself, Paul Hollywood. This rich and flavorful bread recipe makes for a perfect centerpiece for any meal or a delightful treat on its own. Let’s get baking with this Paul Hollywood masterpiece!
**Paul Hollywood**
**Ingredients:**
– 500g strong bread flour
– 10g salt
– 40g butter, softened
– 7g fast-action yeast
– 320ml water, at room temperature
**Instructions:**
1. **Prep the Oven:** Preheat your oven to 220°C (200°C for fan ovens).
2. **Mix the Ingredients:** In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the butter and rub it into the flour mixture with your fingertips until it resembles fine breadcrumbs. Stir in the yeast.
3. **Make the Dough:** Make a well in the center of the flour mixture and pour in the water. Mix together to form a rough dough. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface.
4. **Knead the Dough:** Knead the dough for at least 10 minutes or until it becomes smooth and elastic. You can also use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment for this step.
5. **Prove the Dough:** Place the dough back into the mixing bowl, cover it with a clean tea towel, and let it prove for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
6. **Shape the Bread:** Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release the air. Shape it into a neat loaf shape and place it on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
7. **Second Proving:** Cover the loaf with the tea towel again and allow it to prove for another 30-45 minutes until puffed up and slightly bigger in size.
8. **Bake the Bread:** Before baking, slash the top of the loaf a few times with a sharp knife. Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped on the bottom.
9. **Cool and Serve:** Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and serve with your favorite spreads or enjoy it warm with a pat of butter.
10. **Enjoy the Deliciousness:** Revel in the delightful aroma and taste of your homemade Paul Hollywood-inspired bread. Share it with friends and family or savor it as a tasty treat for yourself.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this Paul Hollywood bread recipe is sure to impress and delight. With its simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you’ll be enjoying fresh, homemade bread in no time. So put on your apron, preheat your oven, and get ready to bake your way to bread perfection with this scrumptious recipe. Happy baking!
