Feel Good Bread (Copycat)
Introduction
Bread: is more than just food; it evokes memories and brings people together. The smell of freshly baked bread can fill a room with warmth and comfort. There’s something truly special about breaking bread with loved ones. This Feel Good Bread recipe is inspired by those cherished moments at family dinners, where a warm, soft loaf would be torn apart before the meal even started. With this easy copycat recipe, you can recreate that warm, inviting feeling right in your own kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You will love this Feel Good Bread recipe for many reasons. First, it’s simple to make, even for those who might be intimidated by baking. With just a few basic ingredients, you can create a delicious loaf that will impress family and friends. This bread has a soft, fluffy texture that is ideal for sandwiches, toast, or simply slathering with butter. Plus, it fills your home with a delightful aroma that brings back fond memories and creates new ones.
Another reason to love this bread is its versatility. You can serve it with any meal or enjoy it on its own. Whether you’re having a comforting soup for dinner, a light salad for lunch, or just a snack with some jam, Feel Good Bread fits in perfectly.
Making this bread also allows you to experience the joy of baking. There’s something satisfying about watching dough rise and then indulging in something delicious that you’ve created yourself. With this recipe, you’ll find that baking can be both fun and rewarding.
How to Prepare Feel Good Bread
Making Feel Good Bread at home is a straightforward process. You don’t need any fancy equipment; just a mixing bowl, a whisk, and a baking pan. As you follow the simple steps, you’ll see how easy it is to enjoy homemade bread with minimal effort.
Ingredients:
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup warm water (about 110°F)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
Prepare the Yeast: In a small bowl, mix the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This indicates that the yeast is active.
Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Stir until well mixed.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Once the yeast mixture is frothy, add it to the flour mixture along with the olive oil. Stir until the ingredients are combined and a sticky dough forms.
Knead the Dough: On a floured surface, knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes. The dough should be smooth and elastic. If it’s too sticky, add a little more flour as needed.
First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
Shape the Loaf: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to remove any air bubbles. Shape it into a loaf by rolling it on a floured surface.
Second Rise: Place the shaped loaf in a greased loaf pan. Cover with a towel and let it rise again for about 30-45 minutes, or until it doubles in size once more.
Preheat the Oven: While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Bake the Bread: When the dough has risen, place it in the preheated oven. Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and it sounds hollow when tapped.
Cool the Bread: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for a few minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
How to Serve Feel Good Bread
Feel Good Bread is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. You can slice it fresh and serve it with butter at breakfast, pair it with soups or salads for lunch or dinner, or even use it to make delicious sandwiches. It’s perfect for creating a classic peanut butter and jelly, a hearty turkey club, or simply enjoying with your favorite spreads.
You can also toast slices of this bread for a delightful crunch. Add your favorite toppings, such as avocado, cheese, or cinnamon sugar, for a tasty twist. The options are endless!
How to Store Feel Good Bread
To store your Feel Good Bread, allow it to cool completely before wrapping it. Use a plastic wrap or a resealable bag to keep the loaf fresh. It can be stored at room temperature for about 2-3 days.
If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. To freeze, slice the bread and wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. This way, you can take out just what you need without thawing the whole loaf. The bread should stay good in the freezer for about 2-3 months.
Preparation Tips for Feel Good Bread
Use Warm Water: Ensure your water is warm to activate the yeast properly. Too hot will kill the yeast, while too cold will not activate it.
Knead Properly: Kneading develops the gluten in the flour, giving the bread its texture. Don’t skip this step; it’s crucial for a good loaf.
Don’t Rush the Rising Times: Allowing the bread to rise fully will result in a lighter, fluffier loaf. If your kitchen is cool, it may take longer.
Check for Doneness: Use a thermometer to check the internal temperature of the bread; it should be around 190°F (88°C) when fully baked.
Variation
While this Feel Good Bread recipe is delightful as is, feel free to add your twist! You can incorporate herbs, cheese, or garlic for added flavor. Adding a tablespoon of honey instead of sugar can give the bread a subtle sweetness. If you like whole grains, substitute half of the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes, you can use instant yeast! Simply mix it with the flour instead of activating it separately with water.
2. What should I do if my dough isn’t rising?
If your dough isn’t rising, it may be because the yeast is inactive. This could happen if the water was too hot or too cold. Make sure the water is warm (not hot), and check the expiration date on your yeast.
3. Can I make this bread gluten-free?
Yes! You can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular flour. Make sure to add xantham gum if your blend doesn’t include it already.
With this Feel Good Bread recipe, you can recreate the delightful experience of family dinners in your home. It’s simple, satisfying, and most importantly, delicious. Enjoy baking and sharing this cherished treat with your loved ones!
