Imagine sinking your teeth into a slice of bread so moist, so tender, it practically melts in your mouth - that's the magic of Potato Bread! This isn't just any ordinary bread recipe; it's a game-changing culinary experience that transforms humble potatoes into a bakery-worthy masterpiece. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, this recipe promises to elevate your bread-making skills and impress everyone at your dinner table with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 2 hrs
Total Time: 2 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 1 loaf
Ingredients
- 2 cups mashed potatoes
- 1 cup warm water
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 4 cups bread flour
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the mashed potatoes. You can use leftover mashed potatoes or make fresh ones. If making fresh, peel and chop the potatoes, then boil them in salted water until tender. Drain and mash until smooth, allowing them to cool slightly before using.
- In a small bowl, combine the warm water and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This indicates that the yeast is active.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, sugar, vegetable oil, and salt. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Once the yeast mixture is frothy, add it to the mashed potato mixture and stir to combine.
- Gradually add the bread flour, one cup at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Continue until all the flour is incorporated and a soft dough forms.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead the dough for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, you can add a little more flour as needed.
- Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, turning it to coat all sides. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Allow the dough to rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface again and shape it into a loaf.
- Place the shaped loaf into a greased bread pan. Cover it again with a towel or plastic wrap and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes until it has risen slightly above the rim of the pan.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while the dough is rising for the second time.
- Once the dough has risen, bake it in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
- Enjoy your homemade Potato Bread, either on its own or with your favorite spreads!
Tips
- Use room temperature ingredients to ensure better yeast activation and smoother dough consistency.
- If your mashed potatoes are cold, warm them slightly to help the yeast work more effectively.
- Don't rush the rising process - patience is key to developing rich flavor and soft texture.
- Check your yeast's freshness before starting; old yeast can prevent proper rising.
- For extra softness, brush the top of the bread with melted butter immediately after baking.
- Store your potato bread in an airtight container to maintain its moisture for 3-4 days.
- For a crispy crust, place a pan of water in the bottom of the oven while baking to create steam.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
