How to Make Bread with Baking Powder: Step-by-Step Guide

Recipe for Bread with Baking Powder

Have you ever wanted to bake your own bread but felt intimidated by the complexity of traditional yeast-based recipes? Well, fear no more! In this article, we will guide you through a simple and delicious recipe for bread using baking powder. With just a few ingredients and some basic kitchen equipment, you can enjoy homemade bread that is soft, fluffy, and satisfyingly tasty.

A Simple and Effective Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup milk
• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil

Step 1: Preparing the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix them together thoroughly.
2. Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the milk and vegetable oil.
3. Using a wooden spoon or your hands, mix all the ingredients until they come together to form a soft, slightly sticky dough.

Step 2: Shaping the Bread

1. Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface.
2. Knead the dough gently for about 5 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Remember not to over-knead, as it can make the bread dense.
3. Shape the dough into a round loaf by tucking the edges underneath and rotating it.
4. Place the shaped loaf onto a greased baking sheet or a parchment-lined baking tray.

Step 3: Baking the Bread

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Using a sharp knife, score the top of the loaf to allow it to expand while baking.
3. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 30-35 minutes, or until the bread turns golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on its bottom.
4. Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and transfer it onto a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

FAQs

1. Can I add any other ingredients to the bread dough?

Absolutely! This basic bread recipe can serve as a canvas for your creativity. Feel free to incorporate herbs, spices, cheese, or even dried fruits and nuts into the dough to elevate the flavor and texture of your bread.

2. Can I use whole-wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Certainly! While all-purpose flour is commonly used in bread recipes due to its gluten content, you can replace up to 50% of the all-purpose flour with whole-wheat flour. This substitution will result in a slightly denser bread with a nuttier taste and increased nutritional value.

3. How long can I store the baked bread?

To keep your bread fresh, store it in an airtight container or a plastic bag at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. If you want to prolong its shelf life, you can slice the bread and freeze it, allowing you to thaw individual slices whenever needed.

4. Can I double the recipe to make more bread?

Certainly! If you wish to make a larger batch of bread, you can easily double or triple the recipe. Just make sure you have a big enough mixing bowl and baking sheet or tray to accommodate the increased amount of dough.

5. Can I make this bread without an oven?

Of course! If you dont have access to an oven, you can still enjoy homemade bread by using alternative cooking methods such as a stovetop skillet or a bread machine. Simply adjust the cooking time and temperature accordingly, following the instructions provided with your chosen method.

Baking your own bread is a rewarding experience that can be easily achieved with this simple recipe using baking powder. By following the steps outlined above, you can create a delicious loaf of bread that will impress your family and friends. So why wait? Put on your apron, preheat that oven, and embark on your bread-baking adventure today!