Imagine pulling a perfectly golden, aromatic loaf of rustic brown bread from your bread machine - a bread so delicious it'll make your kitchen smell like a professional Italian bakery! This homemade bread isn't just a recipe; it's a culinary adventure that transforms simple ingredients into a masterpiece of wholesome, hearty goodness. Whether you're a baking novice or a seasoned home cook, this bread machine recipe will revolutionize your bread-making experience and impress everyone at your dinner table.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 3 hrs
Total Time: 3 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 1 loaf
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups warm water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cups whole wheat flour
- 1 cup bread flour
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients and ensure they are at room temperature. Measure each ingredient precisely using standard measuring cups and spoons.
- Pour the warm water (approximately 110°F/43°C) into the bread machine pan. The water temperature is crucial for activating the yeast without killing it.
- Add olive oil to the water, which will help enhance the bread's flavor and create a softer texture.
- Layer the dry ingredients carefully in the following order: whole wheat flour, bread flour, brown sugar, and salt. Creating distinct layers helps prevent premature yeast activation.
- Create a small well in the center of the dry ingredients and carefully add the active dry yeast. Ensure the yeast does not directly contact the salt, which can inhibit its growth.
- Insert the bread pan into the bread machine and select the whole wheat or basic bread setting. Choose a medium crust color for optimal browning.
- Close the lid and start the bread machine. The complete cycle will mix, knead, rise, and bake the bread automatically.
- Once the baking cycle completes, carefully remove the bread pan using oven mitts. Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
- Gently remove the bread from the pan and transfer to a wire cooling rack. Let it cool completely for at least 1 hour before slicing to maintain the bread's structure.
- Slice with a sharp serrated knife and serve. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days.
Tips
- • Temperature Matters: Use warm water precisely around 110°F to activate the yeast without killing it. • Ingredient Layering: Always add ingredients in the order specified to ensure proper mixing and rising. • Yeast Placement: Create a small well for yeast and keep it away from direct salt contact to prevent inhibiting its growth. • Crust Control: Select medium crust color for optimal browning and texture. • Cooling is Crucial: Allow bread to cool completely before slicing to maintain its structural integrity. • Storage Hack: Keep your bread in an airtight container to maintain freshness for 3-4 days. • Optional Enhancements: Consider adding seeds like sunflower or flax for extra nutrition and crunch.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 3g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
