Are you ready to embark on a delicious journey into the world of homemade bread baking? Let’s dive into the heartwarming tradition of making butter bread, a recipe passed down from generations. Mixing flour, water, and milk isn’t just a culinary task; it’s a legacy of flavor and love. Join me as we explore the simple steps to create mouthwatering butter bread that will make you reminisce about your grandmother’s kitchen.
1. Introduction
Imagine the aroma of freshly baked bread filling your kitchen, reminiscent of childhood memories and family gatherings. Today, we’re going to uncover the magic behind my grandmother’s cherished recipe for butter bread. From mixing the simplest of ingredients to savoring the final product, this journey promises to delight your senses and warm your heart.
2. Ingredients
To embark on our butter bread adventure, gather the following ingredients:
- 3/4 cup warm water
- 3/4 cup hot milk
- 2 1/2 teaspoons dry yeast
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 7 tablespoons plus 1 teaspoon sunflower seed oil
- 1 teaspoon fine salt
- 6 cups wheat flour
- to taste: butter
3. Mixing the Ingredients
Let’s kickstart our bread-making journey by mixing the key ingredients together. In a large bowl, combine warm water, hot milk, dry yeast, and sugar. Use a whisk to blend them seamlessly. As you pour in the sunflower seed oil and salt, keep whisking until the mixture is smooth and velvety.
4. Kneading the Dough
Now comes the satisfying part—kneading the dough! Gradually sift the wheat flour into the bowl, stirring with a wooden spoon. When it becomes too thick, it’s time to get your hands in the dough. Transfer it onto a wooden pastry board and knead vigorously until it transforms into a smooth, elastic dough.
5. Shaping the Loaves
Divide the dough into 10 equal parts, shaping each into a loaf. Grease your hands with sunflower oil and coat each loaf generously. Place a small portion of butter on top of each, spreading it evenly. Using your fingers, widen the loaves into discs and fold the edges towards the center. Roll them into cylinders and place them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
6. Letting the Dough Rise
Cover the loaves with a clean cloth and let them rest for 15 minutes. This allows the dough to rise, creating fluffy and airy bread. During this time, preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F) to prepare for baking.
7. Preparing for Baking
Beat an egg in a small bowl and brush it over the loaves using a kitchen brush. Make light incisions on the surface of the dough for that classic artisanal look. Then, place the tray in the preheated oven and let the magic happen.
8. Baking the Bread
Allow the bread to bake for approximately 25 minutes until it turns golden brown and emits a heavenly aroma. Once baked to perfection, remove the loaves from the oven and let them cool slightly before indulging in their warm goodness.
9. Enjoying the Homemade Bliss
Congratulations! You’ve successfully created homemade butter bread that’s bound to impress. Slice into the pillowy softness and savor each bite with a generous smear of butter. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or toasted the next day, this bread is sure to become a household favorite.
10. Conclusion
In conclusion, baking butter bread is not just about following a recipe; it’s about creating cherished memories and flavors that linger long after the last crumb is gone. Channel your inner baker, gather your loved ones, and embark on this culinary adventure together. From kneading dough to breaking bread, every step is a testament to the joy of homemade baking.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use different types of flour for this recipe?
Absolutely! While wheat flour is traditionally used, feel free to experiment with different varieties like whole wheat, all-purpose, or even gluten-free flour for a unique twist.
2. Can I substitute the sunflower seed oil with another type of oil?
Yes, you can substitute sunflower seed oil with olive oil, vegetable oil, or melted butter according to your preference. Each oil imparts its own flavor profile to the bread.
3. How long does the dough need to rise?
The dough typically needs to rise for about 30 minutes initially, then an additional 15 minutes after shaping the loaves. However, rising times may vary depending on factors like room temperature and humidity.
4. Can I freeze the dough for later use?
Yes, you can freeze the dough after shaping it into loaves. Simply wrap each loaf tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. When ready to bake, allow the dough to thaw and rise before baking as usual.
5. How should I store the baked bread?
To maintain freshness, store the baked bread in a paper bag or bread box at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.
Embark on your bread baking journey today and experience the joy of homemade butter bread that’s sure to delight your taste buds and warm your soul. Happy baking!
