Bread In A Bag
Have you ever tried making bread in a bag? If you’ve had fun making ice cream this way with your kids, you’re in for a delightful surprise. Not only is this method super simple, but it also yields a soft, sandwich-style loaf that’s so good, you might just stop buying bread from the store altogether. It’s a fantastic kitchen project that’s perfect for “kids” of all ages!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Bread in a Bag recipe is incredibly easy and practically foolproof. With minimal kneading and no complicated steps, it’s the perfect introduction to bread-making for beginners. Plus, it’s a fun and engaging activity to do with children or even by yourself on a lazy afternoon.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- 1 gallon-sized plastic resealable bag
- Loaf pan
- Medium mixing bowl
- Oven preheated to 375°F
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet yeast
- 1 cup warm water
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare your loaf pan by greasing it and preheat your oven to 375°F.
- In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup of flour, sugar, and yeast. Pour this mixture into a resealable gallon-sized plastic bag.
- Add warm water to the bag, seal it while pressing out any air, and shake and mash the bag with your hands until the ingredients are well combined.
- Let the bag rest on your counter for 10 minutes. When you return, the mixture should be bubbly.
- Mix another cup of flour and salt in the same bowl, then pour it into the bag along with the melted butter. Seal the bag again, press out the air, and mix everything together.
- Open the bag and add the remaining cup of flour. Close and mix until the dough is well combined and starts to form a more solid consistency.
- Remove the dough from the bag and place it on a floured surface. Knead the dough with floured hands for 5 to 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and slightly springy.
- Place the dough into the prepared loaf pan, cover with a towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for 30 to 45 minutes.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. After baking, slice, serve, and enjoy your homemade bread!
Tips for Success
- Ensure the water is warm to activate the yeast properly, but not too hot as it can kill the yeast.
- For best results, let the dough rise in a draft-free, warm area of your kitchen.
Additional Tips and Variations
Feel free to experiment by adding herbs or spices to the dough for a flavored loaf. You can also sprinkle sesame seeds or oats on top before baking for a different texture.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
Calories: 150 | Carbohydrates: 28g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 4g | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 2g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use whole wheat flour instead? Yes, but note that the texture will be denser. You might consider using half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour for a lighter loaf.
How do I store the bread? Store in an airtight container or bag at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the bread.
Conclusion
Bread in a Bag is a simple yet rewarding recipe that brings the joy of homemade bread into your kitchen with little effort. We hope you’ll give it a try and enjoy the process as much as the delicious end result. We’d love to hear about your baking adventures, so feel free to share your experiences and any variations you try!