Since it’s been recommended that everyone stay at home, that is exactly what I’m doing. Some days, I reorganize closets and drawers that I had been meaning to get to for a while, other days I go for a long run to enjoy the spring weather (away from people, of course!).
As you might expect, I mostly cook and bake…..a lot. It’s my thing, and I’m proud of it. Like many folks these days, I recently tried my hand at making bread. I have made pretzel bread before but never white bread. White bread can take a couple of days to make, because you have to let it rise a few times, and each rise takes a few hours. On the other hand, what else are we going to do with all this time?
As with the previous recipe, I am sure you have all the ingredients in your pantry. This is going to make your house smell so wonderful, and your family will love you for making it. It is easy to make, and such a crowd pleaser. Once you finish it, you feel like you have accomplished something. Go on and try it!
The author of this recipe offers some suggestions: “Sifting flour for bread recipes is a must-do. Most people just scoop the 1 cup measure in the flour canister and level it off. That compacts the flour and will turn your bread into a “hard biscuit” as some have described. That’s because they aren’t sifting their flour! If you do not have a sifter, use a spoon to spoon the flour into the 1 cup measure. Try it once the “correct” way and you will see an amazing difference in the end product.”
He also notes that “this makes a very hearty bread with a crunchy, buttery crust. If you prefer a softer crust (like a traditional bread) mix the butter into the batter instead of pouring it over the top.”
This delightful bread recipe was given to me by friend Julia. She was spot on! This bread was so easy to make, yet people will think you have been slaving away all day. The best part is that it is a “no knead” and no need to wait for it to rise bread. The crust is buttery goodness in every bite. The inside is so soft and pillowy–it is like eating a piece of cloud. It tastes incredible, and goes great with jam or other preserves, or even clotted cream. Make this for your friends and family. I am definitely going to make an extra to bring to mine!
This recipe is courtesy of Food.com and will serve 6 to 8 people who will absolutely “knead” it in their lives!
Ingredients for Beer Bread:
3 cups flour (sifted)
3 teaspoons baking powder (omit if using Self-Rising Flour)
1 teaspoon salt (omit if using Self-Rising Flour)
1⁄4 cup sugar
1 (12 ounce) can beer
1/2 cup melted butter (1/4 cup will do just fine)
Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
Line a loaf pan with parchment paper with overhangs on each side.
Mix dry ingredients and beer. (Batter will be very sticky.)
Pour into loaf pan.
Pour melted butter over mixture.
Bake 1 hour, remove from pan and cool for at least 15 minutes.
It’s that simple!
