1. Activate the Yeast
In a small mixing bowl, dissolve the yeast with 1 teaspoon of sugar in 4 tablespoons of lukewarm water. Let it stand until foamy, which would take about 5-10 minutes. This step ensures your yeast is alive and ready to leaven the bread.
2. Make the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 550 grams of plain flour and a pinch of salt. Add 50 grams of unsalted butter and 320 millilitres of buttermilk, as well as the activated yeast mixture.
Using the dough hook attachment of your hand mixer, mix the ingredients until a smooth dough forms. This should take about 5-7 minutes. The dough should be soft and slightly sticky, but manageable. Cover the dough with a tea towel and let it rise in a warm place for about an hour, or until it has doubled in size.
3. Prepare the Loaf Tin
While the dough is rising, prepare the loaf tin.
Grease a 10×25 cm (4×10″) loaf tin with butter and line it with a wide strip of baking parchment. This makes it much easier to remove the baked bread and prevents it from sticking to the baking pan.
4. Shape the Dough
After the dough has doubled in volume, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it a few times with your hands. Shape the dough into a slightly oblong shape and place it into the loaf tin. Make sure the dough is roughly even in thickness, so it bakes evenly. Cover the dough with a tea towel and let it rest while you preheat the oven.
5. Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 180 °C (350 °F) and position the oven rack in the middle.
6. Bake
Once the oven has reached the desired temperature, score the dough a few times with a sharp knife. This allows the bread to expand properly in the oven and creates an attractive pattern on the crust. Brush the top of the dough with 2 tablespoons of milk. Bake the buttermilk bread for approximately 35-45 minutes, or until golden brown.
7. Serve
Once baked, allow the bread to cool in the loaf tin for about 10 minutes. Then carefully remove it from the tin and place it on a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling the bread on a wire rack prevents the bottom from becoming soggy and ensures the bread has a firm but tender texture.
This Buttermilk Bread recipe makes about 10 slices. Serve with your favourite spreads, soups, or meals. The light buttermilk note of the bread goes wonderfully with sweet and savoury toppings.
Variations
Herb Buttermilk Bread: Add 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh herbs (such as rosemary, thyme, or basil) to the flour mixture for a fragrant and flavourful touch.
Cheese Buttermilk Bread: Mix 100 grams of grated cheddar or Parmesan cheese for a savoury cheese bread.
Sweet Buttermilk Bread: For a slightly sweet version, add 2 tablespoons of honey or sugar to the dough. For extra flavour, add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
Conclusion
Since it doesn’t contain any complicated ingredients, this recipe is perfect for both beginners and experienced bakers. Buttermilk bread is a beloved staple in our family, valued for its soft texture and rich flavour. It is a versatile and delicious addition to any meal. Bake a loaf today and experience the comfort and satisfaction of home-baked bread. Enjoy!
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