Best Bread Machine Recipe

The best bread machine recipe is easy and uses simple ingredients. Start by adding 1 1/2 cups warm milk and 6 tablespoons softened butter to the machine. Next, sprinkle in 4 cups bread flour, followed by 2 tablespoons sugar and 1 1/2 teaspoons salt. Select the “dough” setting and let the machine mix and rise. After shaping the dough, let it rise again before baking it at 350°F for 25-30 minutes. Explore more tips for perfect bread!

Why You’ll Love this Recipe

When you try this bread machine recipe, you’ll quickly see why it’s a favorite among home bakers.

First, the process is effortless; the machine handles mixing, kneading, and baking for you. You’ll appreciate the time efficiency, requiring only a few minutes of hands-on work.

  • No Kneading Needed: The machine does it all, saving you from manual effort.

  • Ingredient Control: You can choose fresh ingredients, avoiding chemicals.

  • Versatile Options: Make white, whole wheat, or gluten-free bread easily.

  • Less Mess: The machine contains all the ingredients, keeping your kitchen tidy. Additionally, the ability to create healthier bread options ensures you can cater to your family’s dietary needs.

With consistent results and the ability to schedule bakes, you’ll enjoy fresh bread anytime, making this recipe a practical choice for busy lives.

Recipe

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Making homemade bread in a bread machine is a rewarding experience that fills your kitchen with the delightful aroma of freshly baked bread. This recipe utilizes a blend of warm milk, softened butter, and bread flour to create a soft and fluffy loaf. The addition of quick-rise yeast guarantees that your dough rises efficiently, while sugar and salt enhance the overall flavor.

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice, this straightforward recipe will help you create a delicious loaf that can be enjoyed on its own or as part of a meal.

Using a bread machine takes the guesswork out of the mixing and kneading process, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your cooking or baking. The machine’s precise temperature control and timing help guarantee that your bread rises perfectly and bakes evenly.

Feel free to experiment with different sweeteners or alternative oils to customize the flavor of your bread. With this basic recipe as your foundation, you can explore a variety of bread types and flavors, making it a versatile addition to your baking repertoire.

Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 Cups – Warm Milk (345 milliliters)
– 6 Tablespoons – Unsalted Butter (softened) (86 grams)
– 4 Cups – Bread Flour (480 grams)
– 2 Tablespoons – White Granulated Sugar (25 grams)
– 1 1/2 Teaspoons – Salt (9 grams)
– 1 Tablespoon – Quick-Rise Yeast
– 1 Egg (optional for added moisture and protein)

Cooking Instructions:
1. Begin by adding the warm milk and softened butter to the bread machine pan. Make sure the milk is warm but not hot, as excessive heat can kill the yeast.
2. Sprinkle the bread flour over the liquid ingredients, guaranteeing it covers the milk and butter completely.
3. In a separate small bowl, mix together the sugar, salt, and quick-rise yeast. Carefully add this mixture on top of the flour, making sure not to stir it in yet.
4. If using an egg, create a small well in the center of the dry ingredients and crack the egg into the well. This helps guarantee even distribution once the mixing begins.
5. Select the “dough” setting on your bread machine and start the cycle. The machine will mix, knead, and allow the dough to rise.
6. Once the dough cycle is complete, lightly flour your work surface and turn out the dough. Shape it into a loaf or desired shape as per your preference.
7. Place the shaped dough into a greased loaf pan or back into the bread machine if it has a baking option. Allow it to rise for about 30-45 minutes until it has doubled in size.
8. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) if you’re baking in a conventional oven. Bake the bread for about 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
9. Remove the bread from the pan and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing.

Extra Tips:
For best results, always use fresh ingredients, particularly yeast, as this can greatly impact the rise and texture of your bread. If you notice your bread not rising as expected, check the temperature of your liquids and guarantee they’re warm enough to activate the yeast.

Additionally, feel free to experiment with different types of flour or add-ins, such as herbs, spices, or other flavorings, to create unique variations of this basic recipe. Enjoy the process of making bread at home, and don’t hesitate to adjust the ingredients to suit your taste!

Final Thoughts

Although baking bread at home can seem challenging, using a bread machine simplifies the process and yields delicious results.

To maintain your bread machine, follow these essential care tips:

  • Clean the bread pan and kneading paddle with warm, soapy water after each use.
  • Avoid metal utensils and abrasive cleaners to protect the non-stick coating.
  • Use a soft brush for stuck dough, especially around the paddle.
  • Oil the kneading shaft regularly to prevent rust and motor strain.
  • Always check the manual for specific cleaning instructions.

Proper maintenance not only enhances bread quality but also extends the machine’s life.

Remember to unplug the machine and let it cool before cleaning. Following these guidelines will guarantee your bread maker runs efficiently and produces great bread every time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Whole Wheat Flour in This Recipe?

Yes, you can use whole wheat flour in your recipe. Just remember to adjust the liquid and yeast quantities, and consider using the whole wheat setting on your bread machine for the best results.

How Do I Store Leftover Bread?

If you don’t store leftover bread properly, it could turn into a rock-hard fossil! Keep it cut-side down on the counter, use a breadbox, or freeze it for future tasty sandwiches.

What Size Bread Machine Is Needed for This Recipe?

To determine the right bread machine size for your recipe, consider the loaf weight and slice yield. A medium (2 lb) machine suits most recipes, while larger machines handle denser, family-sized loaves better.

Can I Add Ingredients Like Nuts or Seeds?

Yes, you can add nuts or seeds to your bread machine. Just be certain to chop them finely, avoid overloading, and add them at the right time to guarantee proper mixing and consistency in your dough.

How Long Does the Bread Take to Bake?

Wondering how long your bread takes to bake? It typically ranges from 58 minutes on express cycles to about 4 hours on regular settings. Always check your machine’s specific guidelines for accurate timing!