Ingredients
To embark on your journey to homemade bread perfection, gather the following ingredients:
4 Cups of Plain/All-Purpose Flour: Choose a high-quality flour for optimal results.
50g of Butter or Margarine: Adds richness and moisture to the bread.
½ Cup of Sugar: Provides sweetness and helps activate the yeast.
1 tablespoon of Yeast: Essential for leavening and rising the dough.
2 Eggs: Adds structure and richness to the bread.
1 Cup of Water (room temperature): The ideal liquid for activating the yeast and forming the dough.
1 teaspoon of Vanilla Flavor: Enhances the aroma and taste of the bread.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Mixing the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and yeast. Mix well to ensure even distribution of ingredients.
Add the butter or margarine to the dry ingredients. Use your fingertips to rub the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse breadcrumbs.
Crack the eggs into the bowl, followed by the vanilla flavor and water. Using a dough mixer attachment or your hands, combine all the ingredients until a rough dough forms.
Kneading the Dough
Transfer the dough onto a clean, floured work surface. Knead the dough for approximately 10-15 minutes, using the heel of your hand to push and fold the dough.
Continue kneading until the dough becomes smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky to the touch. This process helps develop the gluten in the dough, resulting in a softer and more airy texture.
Shaping and Proofing
After kneading, shape the dough into a smooth ball and place it in a lightly greased bowl. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let the dough proof in a warm, draft-free place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
Continued on next page (page 2)
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