Bake Batter Bread
Bake Batter Bread Recipe - Delicious Homemade Bread
Introduction
Bake Batter Bread is a simple yet delightful recipe that brings the warmth and comfort of homemade bread into your kitchen with minimal fuss. Unlike traditional bread recipes that require kneading, this batter bread utilizes a vigorous beating technique to develop the gluten, making it an excellent choice for beginners and seasoned bakers alike. This guide will walk you through the history of the recipe, provide valuable cooking tips, and delve into the nutritional content of this wholesome bread.
History
The concept of batter bread dates back centuries and is rooted in the tradition of making bread accessible and straightforward. The method of using a batter-like consistency instead of a kneaded dough was particularly appealing in times and places where resources were scarce, and the effort needed to be minimized. This recipe, with its combination of basic ingredients and a simple process, reflects the evolution of bread-making techniques aimed at bringing the joy of fresh bread to more tables.
Ingredients
- 2.5 cups flour
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1 package active dry yeast (2.25 tsp)
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tbsp shortening
- 1 egg
How to prepare
- Combine the dry ingredients in a large bowl.
- Heat the milk and shortening together over low heat until warm. The shortening does not need to melt.
- Add the egg to the flour mixture.
- Stir in the milk mixture.
- Beat the batter very hard for 300 strokes or use a heavy-duty mixer. The batter should leave the sides of the bowl.
- Scrape the batter down from the side of the bowl and cover it.
- Let the batter rise in a warm place (80°F (27°C) to 85°F) until it doubles in size, about 45 minutes.
- Grease a 9 x 5 inches loaf pan.
- Stir the batter down and pour it into the greased loaf pan.
- Let the batter rise in a warm place until it doubles in size, about 45 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
- Place the bread into the oven and bake it for about 40 minutes. The bread will sound hollow when tapped to indicate it is finished baking.
- Remove the bread from the pan and let it cool on a baking rack.
- Makes about 18 slices.
Variations
- 1. Whole Wheat Batter Bread: Substitute 1 cup of whole wheat flour for 1 cup of all-purpose flour for added fiber.
- 2. Herb Batter Bread: Add 1 tablespoon of your favorite dried herbs, such as rosemary or thyme, to the flour mixture for a flavorful twist.
- 3. Sweet Cinnamon Batter Bread: Incorporate 1/4 cup of sugar and 2 teaspoons of cinnamon into the batter for a sweet treat.
Notes
- measuring cups and spoons
- mixing bowls
- spoon
- mixer, optional
- loaf pan
- cooling rack
Cooking Tips & Tricks
1. Ensure your yeast is fresh for the best rise. Test its activity by dissolving a bit in warm water with a pinch of sugar; it should bubble within 10 minutes.
2. Warm the milk to the right temperature (105°F-110°F) to activate the yeast without killing it.
3. Beating the batter vigorously is crucial. If using a mixer, a paddle attachment works best.
4. Allow the bread to rise in a draft-free, warm place to ensure a good rise.
5. Don't skip the second rise in the pan, as it's essential for the bread's final texture and volume.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Bake Batter Bread freshly sliced as a side to soups and salads, toasted with butter for breakfast, or use it to make delicious sandwiches. Its versatility makes it a staple in any meal plan.
Cooking Techniques
The key technique in this recipe is the vigorous beating of the batter, which can be achieved with a strong arm and a wooden spoon or with a heavy-duty mixer. This process develops the gluten strands that give the bread structure.
Ingredient Substitutions
1. Vegan: Use almond milk instead of cow's milk and a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) instead of a chicken egg.
2. Gluten-Free: Substitute gluten-free all-purpose flour for regular flour. Ensure the blend includes xanthan gum to help with the bread's structure.
Make Ahead Tips
Prepare the batter up to the first rise, then cover and refrigerate overnight. The next day, let the batter come to room temperature, stir it down, and proceed with the second rise and baking.
Presentation Ideas
Slice the bread and arrange it in a basket lined with a clean kitchen towel for a rustic presentation. For a more elegant display, slice the bread thinly and serve it on a wooden board with a selection of cheeses and fruits.
Pairing Recommendations
Bake Batter Bread pairs beautifully with creamy soups, hearty stews, and robust salads. Its simplicity also makes it an excellent companion to complex dishes, providing a balance of flavors.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store the bread wrapped in plastic or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To reheat, wrap the bread in foil and warm it in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes. For longer storage, slice and freeze the bread for up to 3 months.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each slice of Bake Batter Bread contains approximately 100 calories, making it a suitable option for those monitoring their calorie intake.
Carbohydrates
A single serving of Bake Batter Bread, approximately one slice, contains about 15 grams of carbohydrates. The primary source of these carbohydrates is the flour, providing the body with energy.
Fats
Each slice of Bake Batter Bread contains about 2 grams of fat, which comes from the shortening and the egg. These fats contribute to the bread's tender texture.
Proteins
This bread offers about 3 grams of protein per slice, thanks to the milk and egg in the recipe. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body.
Vitamins and minerals
Bake Batter Bread provides a range of B vitamins, particularly from the yeast and whole milk, essential for energy metabolism. It also contains minerals like calcium and phosphorus from the milk, contributing to bone health.
Alergens
This recipe contains common allergens: wheat (gluten), dairy (milk), and eggs. Individuals with sensitivities to these should avoid this bread or seek alternative ingredients.
Summary
Bake Batter Bread is a relatively low-calorie option that provides carbohydrates for energy, a modest amount of protein, and essential vitamins and minerals. It's a wholesome addition to a balanced diet, though individuals with specific dietary restrictions should take note of the allergens.
Summary
Bake Batter Bread is a testament to the simplicity and joy of bread-making. With its straightforward process and wholesome ingredients, it's a recipe that invites bakers of all levels to experience the satisfaction of creating beautiful, delicious bread at home. Whether enjoyed on its own or as part of a meal, this bread is sure to become a cherished addition to your baking repertoire.
How did I get this recipe?
The moment I found this recipe is one that will always be special to me. It was a sunny Saturday morning, and I was rummaging through old recipe books in my attic. I stumbled upon a faded, tattered notebook that belonged to my great-grandmother. As I flipped through the pages, I came across a recipe for Bake Batter Bread that immediately caught my eye.
I remember my great-grandmother fondly. She was a wonderful cook and passed down many of her recipes to my grandmother, who in turn passed them down to me. I had never heard of Bake Batter Bread before, but the ingredients and instructions seemed simple enough. I decided to give it a try.
The first step was to mix yeast, warm water, and sugar in a bowl and let it sit for a few minutes until it became frothy. This was a familiar process to me, as I had made many bread recipes that required yeast in the past. As I watched the mixture bubble and grow, I felt a sense of excitement and anticipation.
Next, I added flour, salt, and melted butter to the yeast mixture and began to knead the dough. Kneading bread dough has always been a therapeutic activity for me. I love the feel of the dough under my hands, slowly coming together and forming a smooth, elastic ball.
After letting the dough rise for an hour in a warm place, I punched it down and shaped it into a loaf. I placed the loaf in a greased pan and covered it with a clean towel, allowing it to rise once more. The scent of fresh bread filled my kitchen, and I couldn't wait to see the final result.
As I placed the loaf in the oven and set the timer, I felt a sense of pride and accomplishment. I had discovered a new recipe that had been hidden away for generations, and I couldn't wait to share it with my family.
When the timer went off and I pulled the loaf out of the oven, I was greeted by a beautiful golden-brown bread that looked and smelled delicious. I sliced a piece off and took a bite, savoring the soft, fluffy texture and the buttery flavor. It was perfect.
I couldn't wait to share my Bake Batter Bread with my family. As they gathered around the table, I proudly presented the loaf, explaining how I had found the recipe and decided to give it a try. They were impressed by my discovery and eagerly took a bite of the bread.
The Bake Batter Bread was a hit with my family, and it quickly became a staple in our household. I made it regularly, sometimes adding my own twist by incorporating different herbs or spices. Each time I baked the bread, I felt a connection to my great-grandmother and the generations of women who had come before me.
As I continued to cook and bake, I realized that each recipe I made was more than just a list of ingredients and instructions. It was a piece of history, a story of tradition and family. And the Bake Batter Bread recipe was a perfect example of that.
I will always cherish the moment I found the Bake Batter Bread recipe and the joy it brought to my family. It is a reminder of the importance of passing down traditions and recipes from one generation to the next, preserving the memories and flavors of the past for the future. And for that, I am forever grateful.
Categories
| Bread Recipes |