There’s something truly special about homemade white bread, and this recipe takes the cake as the best you’ll ever make! With its soft, pillowy texture and golden-brown crust, each slice is a testament to the magic of simple ingredients coming together. The secret lies in the gentle folding technique that builds structure and airiness, resulting in a loaf that’s not just delicious but also incredibly satisfying to make. Whether you’re slathering it with butter, crafting a hearty sandwich, or toasting it for breakfast, this bread elevates every meal. Give it a try, and you’ll quickly find yourself savoring the delightful aroma and flavor of freshly baked bread right in your own kitchen!
Ingredients:
- 450g all-purpose flour
- 350g warm water
- 1 packet (8g) active dry yeast
- 9g fine sea salt
- 1 tablespoon agave syrup
Instructions:
1. **Combine Dry Ingredients:** In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and sea salt until evenly blended. This step ensures that the salt is distributed throughout the flour for optimal flavor.
2. **Activate the Yeast:** In a separate bowl, combine the warm water, active dry yeast, and agave syrup. Stir gently and let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes, or until it becomes frothy and bubbly. This indicates that the yeast is alive and ready to work its magic!
3. **Bring It Together:** Once the yeast mixture is frothy, pour it into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Use a wooden spoon or your hands to mix until a shaggy dough forms. It’s okay if the dough is a little sticky!
4. **First Rise:** Cover the bowl with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and let it rise at room temperature for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size. This is the moment when the dough develops its flavor and texture.
5. **Coil Folds for Structure:** After the first rise, it’s time to strengthen your dough. Wet your hands to prevent sticking, then gently stretch one side of the dough up and fold it over to the center. Rotate the bowl a quarter turn and repeat this process until you’ve completed 8 to 10 folds. This technique helps to build gluten structure, resulting in a beautiful, airy loaf.
6. **Second Rise:** Lightly oil a loaf pan and transfer the dough into it, shaping it gently to fit. Place the pan in an unheated oven with the light on, allowing the dough to rise for about 1 hour or until it puffs up slightly above the edges of the pan. This warm environment encourages the dough to rise beautifully.
7. **Preheat the Oven:** Once the dough has risen, remove it from the oven and preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
8. **Bake to Perfection:** Bake the loaf in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until the top is a lovely golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped. This is the moment your kitchen will fill with the most delightful aroma!
9. **Cool and Slice:** Once baked, remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Patience is key! Once cooled, slice into your artisan bread and enjoy the fruits of your labor.
This homemade artisan loaf is perfect for sandwiches, toasting, or simply enjoying with a bit of butter. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Approximate Total Nutritional Content (per loaf)
- Calories: 1,250 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 250g
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 4g
- Fiber: 6g
- Sugar: 6g (mostly from the agave syrup)
- Sodium: 1,800mg
These values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredient brands and types used.
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