Bread in Bag

This season, we’re bringing a splash of science into our kitchen with a unique STEMs-Giving menu. It’s packed with fun and simple Thanksgiving science experiments and activities that kids will absolutely love.

One of the highlights is baking Bread in a Bag—a delightful activity that you can enjoy with your kids at home or in the classroom. This hands-on experience not only lets you bake delicious bread but also explores how yeast works, making it the perfect blend of education and enjoyment.

From toddlers to teenagers, everyone adores a fresh slice of homemade bread. Using a zip-top bag makes it easy for tiny hands to get involved by squishing and kneading the dough.

Interested in a little science experiment? You’ll be using the same type of yeast that triggers an exothermic reaction!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Bread in a Bag recipe is not just about baking; it’s about learning and having fun together. It’s a mess-free way to introduce kids to the joy of baking, and the end result is a warm, fresh loaf of bread that everyone will enjoy.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• 1 gallon-size freezer bag
• 9×5 inch bread pan
• Nonstick cooking spray
• Wire cooling rack

Ingredients

• 3 cups flour, divided
• 3 tablespoons sugar
• 2 ¼ teaspoons rapid rise yeast
• 1 cup warm water (110 to 120 degrees)
• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 ½ teaspoons salt

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Add 1 cup flour, sugar, and yeast to the freezer bag. Seal the bag and shake it to combine the ingredients.
2. Open the bag and pour in the warm water. Seal it again, then squeeze and shake the bag to blend the mixture.
3. Let the bag rest on the counter for 10 minutes or until bubbles form inside.
4. Open the bag, add the oil and another cup of flour. Seal and mix by squeezing and squishing the bag.
5. Add the remaining flour to the bag, seal it, and knead until the flour is fully incorporated.
6. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until it bounces back when pressed.
7. Shape the dough into a loaf and place it in a greased 9×5 inch bread pan. Cover and let it rise until doubled in size, about 60 minutes.
8. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees while the dough rises.
9. Bake the bread for 30 minutes or until it turns golden brown.
10. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire cooling rack.

Tips for Success

Ensure your water is at the right temperature (110 to 120 degrees) to activate the yeast. Be patient during the rising process—it’s key to a fluffy loaf!

Additional Tips and Variations

Add herbs like rosemary or thyme for a flavored twist. You can also incorporate seeds or nuts for added texture.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

Calories: 150 | Carbs: 28g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 3g | Fiber: 1g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use whole wheat flour? Yes, but it may alter the texture slightly. Try a mix of whole wheat and all-purpose flour for best results.

What if I don’t have rapid rise yeast? You can use active dry yeast, but the rising time will be longer.

Conclusion

We hope you enjoy this Bread in a Bag recipe as much as we do. It’s a fantastic way to combine learning and baking—perfect for family bonding. Give it a try and let us know how it goes. We’d love to hear about your experience!