It’s cold outside. Snow is in the forecast for tonight. My cupboard is getting low. Almost bought biscuits yesterday, but decided I would do better to bake a batch myself. It’s not cheaper, and certainly not more convenient. But I welcome the challenge.
Can I bake a loaf of bread? It all started in the baking aisle… sugar, flour, salt, etc… and watching the PBS show: British Baking… got me thinking. My mother could bake bread. I should try this!
So I bought a packet of quick acting yeast, a fresh bag of flour and a pound of butter! Dug out the old mixer and set to baking.
It actually worked out pretty well. I used to work in clay, so kneading the dough was something I was used to. Big trick, was for how long should I knead? and when do I know it’s ready to rest? Resting dough and letting it “proof” is critical to a successful rise. (That’s how they talk on the British Baking Show… I’m learning to proof and let things rest and rise. Not easy.
End result: I made two loves and both were pretty successful. Gave one away to my sister who lives not far away. I don’t think my loaf would win a contest, but no one died toasting my bread. And that’s something to brag about. 🙂
I think I’ll try adding raisins or nuts or something to the next batch. But I better slow down. Got to eat what I bake, and it’s easy to go overboard. What’s better than butter batter! and warm bread with stew? Would you like a loaf?… Great toasted with jam.
Lovely loaf of bread!
It is lovely. And taste good too. I am determined to broaden my baking skills… next on the list… muffins!!! 🙂
Your sister just had another two slices of delicious toasted bread with jam and hot chocolate. Keep the bread baking going!
Very impressive! Great time of year to do baking. It’s 9 degrees here this morning, up from 4 degrees a bit earlier. I did a bit of baking myself yesterday: apple crisp. Tis the season!