English Muffin Bread Recipe
Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Prep Time: 45 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Category: Yeast Breads
Servings: 15
Description
Imagine having hot, freshly baked bread ready to enjoy in just about an hour and a half! This English Muffin Bread boasts a delightful texture reminiscent of traditional English muffins, making it absolutely fabulous when toasted. What’s more, this recipe is incredibly simple as it requires no kneading at all. For the perfect loaves that slice into authentic-looking English muffins, a standard Hunt’s 26-ounce spaghetti sauce can is just the right size and shape. This fantastic recipe is inspired by “Great Whole Grain Breads” by Beatrice Ojakangas, a timeless gem that deserves a spot in your kitchen.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Active dry yeast | 2 teaspoons |
| Warm water | 2 cups |
| Shortening | ½ cup |
| Sugar | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt | 2 teaspoons |
| Yellow cornmeal | ½ cup |
| Rolled oats | 1 cup |
| Bread flour | 4 cups |
| Unbleached white flour | 1 cup |
| Additional oats (for rolling) | As needed |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 223.1 |
| Total Fat | 7.7 g |
| Saturated Fat | 1.8 g |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg |
| Sodium | 313.5 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 33.4 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.9 g |
| Sugars | 1 g |
| Protein | 5 g |
Instructions
-
Dissolve the Yeast: In a large mixing bowl, begin by dissolving the active dry yeast in the warm water, allowing it to sit for approximately 5 minutes until it becomes foamy. This step is crucial as it activates the yeast and ensures that your bread rises properly.
-
Combine Ingredients: Once the yeast is foamy, add the shortening, sugar, salt, yellow cornmeal, rolled oats, and 1 cup of the bread flour. Using a sturdy spoon or an electric mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat the mixture until it is smooth and well combined, creating a rich batter.
-
Create the Dough: Gradually incorporate enough of the remaining flour until you achieve a stiff dough that is nearly sticky but not overly wet. This balance is essential for the final texture of the bread.
-
Divide the Dough: With your hands lightly floured, divide the dough into thirds. This will help in shaping the loaves for baking.
-
Shape the Loaves: Roll each third of the dough in additional oats, which will give the exterior a lovely texture. Shape the dough into loaves and place them into either four 1-pound cans or two 2-pound cans, like the standard Hunt’s pasta sauce can, or alternatively into three mini loaf pans. Ensure that the cans are greased to prevent sticking.
-
Let It Rise: Cover the cans or pans with a clean kitchen towel and let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free area until it has doubled in size. This usually takes about 45 minutes, depending on the ambient temperature.
-
Bake the Bread: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once the dough has risen, place the cans or pans into the preheated oven. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped. The baking time may vary slightly depending on the size of the pans used.
-
Cool the Bread: After baking, allow the bread to stand in the cans or pans for about 5 minutes. This resting period helps the loaves firm up slightly, making them easier to remove. Carefully take them out and let them cool completely on a wire rack.
-
Storage Tips: For the best flavor and texture, it is recommended to consume the bread within 3 days. If you wish to keep it longer, consider freezing the loaves in airtight bags for future enjoyment.
Keywords
Breads, For Large Groups, Oven, Less than 4 Hours
This English Muffin Bread is not only simple to prepare but also offers a delightful homemade touch that will elevate any breakfast or snack time. Enjoy the warm, toasted slices slathered with butter or your favorite spreads!
