Light and Delicious Whole Wheat or White Bread Recipe
This classic recipe for homemade bread offers the flexibility of using either whole wheat flour or white flour, making it a versatile choice for any bread lover. Passed down from my younger sister when I first started using my Bosch machine, this recipe has become a staple in my kitchen, producing six loaves of deliciously light and flavorful bread. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe is sure to fill your home with the irresistible aroma of freshly baked bread.
Ingredients
- 5 1/2 cups water
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 3/4 tablespoon salt
- 2 eggs
- 4 tablespoons vinegar
- 1 tablespoon fast rising yeast
- 4 cups whole wheat flour
- 10 – 11 cups white flour
Instructions
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Combine the Base Ingredients: Begin by mixing together the water, sugar, salt, eggs, and vinegar in a large bowl. Stir until the sugar and salt are completely dissolved.
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Incorporate the Yeast: Add the fast rising yeast to the mixture and stir thoroughly. Ensure that the yeast is well combined with the liquid ingredients.
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Add the Flour: Gradually add the whole wheat flour, mixing well to incorporate it into the dough. Begin adding the white flour, 2 cups at a time, until the dough starts to pull away from the sides of the bowl. Continue to add flour until the dough reaches the desired consistency; it should be smooth and elastic but not sticky. If you’re using a Bosch machine, let it knead the dough for a few minutes until it’s well mixed and elastic.
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Let the Dough Rise: Transfer the dough to a large covered bowl (such as a Tupperware fix n mix). Cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm, draft-free area until doubled in size. This may take about 1 to 1 1/2 hours.
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Shape the Loaves: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Divide the dough into six equal portions and shape each portion into a loaf. Place each loaf into greased loaf pans.
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Second Rise: Cover the loaf pans with a clean tea towel and a piece of plastic wrap over the towel. This will prevent the bread from forming a dry crust on top and help it rise more evenly. Allow the loaves to rise again in a warm, draft-free area until they have doubled in size, which should take about 30 minutes.
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Bake the Bread: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the loaves for approximately 25 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the loaves sound hollow when tapped.
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Enjoy Your Fresh Bread: Remove the loaves from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack before slicing. Enjoy the fresh, homemade bread with your favorite spreads or as a perfect accompaniment to any meal.
Tips
- Flour Variations: Feel free to use a mix of whole wheat and white flour according to your preference. Whole wheat flour will add a nuttier flavor and denser texture, while white flour will result in a lighter and fluffier bread.
- Dough Consistency: If the dough seems too sticky, gradually add more white flour until it reaches the right consistency. Conversely, if the dough is too dry, add a little more water.
- Storage: Store the cooled bread in an airtight container or bread bag to keep it fresh. Homemade bread is best enjoyed within a few days but can also be frozen for longer storage.
This recipe yields six loaves of delightful homemade bread, perfect for sharing with family and friends. Enjoy the process and the delicious results of your baking efforts! 🍞✨
