There’s something truly special about the aroma of freshly baked bread filling your home. Whether you’re a seasoned bread maker or a novice in the kitchen, there’s no denying the satisfaction that comes from creating a beautifully risen, golden loaf from scratch. Today, we’re diving into the world of yeast breads with a classic recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen – C Yeast Breads.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
– 1 1/2 cups warm water (about 110°F)
– 2 tbsp sugar
– 1 tsp salt
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, mix together the warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the water and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This indicates that the yeast is activated and ready for use.
2. Combine the ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Create a well in the center of the flour mixture and pour in the activated yeast mixture. Add the olive oil. Using a wooden spoon or your hands, mix the ingredients until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough: Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time.
4. First rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1-1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
5. Shape the bread: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Shape the dough into a loaf, round, or any desired shape. Place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
6. Second rise: Cover the shaped dough with the kitchen towel and let it rise again for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until it has puffed up.
7. Preheat the oven: While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
8. Bake the bread: Once the dough has completed its second rise, place it in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
9. Cool and enjoy: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing. Serve your freshly baked C Yeast Bread warm with butter, jam, or your favorite spread.
Making homemade yeast bread may seem like a daunting task, but with a little patience and practice, you’ll soon be enjoying the delicious fruits of your labor. Experiment with different shapes and flavors to create bread that suits your taste preferences. So, roll up your sleeves, dust off your mixing bowl, and get ready to enjoy the comforting simplicity of baking your own C Yeast Bread.
