King Arthur Flour's Best Ever White Bread Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide
Are you ready to bake the perfect loaf of white bread? This recipe, inspired by the renowned King Arthur Flour, is your key to achieving that wonderfully soft, fluffy, and flavorful bread you've always dreamed of. We'll break down each step, offering tips and tricks for success along the way. Let's get started!
Why King Arthur Flour?
King Arthur Baking Company has a long-standing reputation for quality ingredients and reliable recipes. Their focus on detail and commitment to baking excellence makes their recipes a favorite among home bakers of all skill levels. This recipe, adapted for clarity and ease of use, will guide you through the process from start to finish.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1 cup (240ml) lukewarm water (105-115°F): Lukewarm water is crucial for activating the yeast properly. Too hot, and you'll kill the yeast; too cold, and it won't activate efficiently.
- 1 ¼ teaspoons (4g) active dry yeast: This is the leavening agent, responsible for the bread's rise. Check the expiration date to ensure freshness.
- 1 tablespoon (15g) granulated sugar: Provides food for the yeast, aiding its growth.
- 1 teaspoon (5g) salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavor of the bread.
- 3 ½ cups (420g) King Arthur Flour bread flour (or all-purpose flour): Bread flour has a higher protein content, leading to a chewier loaf. All-purpose flour will work, but the texture might be slightly different.
- 2 tablespoons (30g) unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and flavor to the bread.
- 1 large egg: Adds moisture and enhances the crust's color.
Step-by-Step Baking Instructions:
Step 1: Activating the Yeast:
In a large bowl, combine the lukewarm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy. This confirms your yeast is alive and ready to work its magic!
Step 2: Combining Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Add the salt and softened butter to the yeast mixture. Stir until the butter is mostly incorporated. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour. Gradually add the flour to the wet ingredients, mixing with a wooden spoon or your hands until a shaggy dough forms.
Step 3: Kneading the Dough:
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes. The dough should be smooth and elastic. If it's too sticky, add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time.
Step 4: First Rise (Bulk Fermentation):
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
Step 5: Shaping the Loaf:
Gently punch down the dough to release the air. Shape it into a round or oblong loaf. Place it in a greased 9x5 inch loaf pan.
Step 6: Second Rise (Proofing):
Cover the loaf pan with plastic wrap and let rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until the dough almost reaches the top of the pan.
Step 7: Baking:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the bread for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 200°F (93°C).
Step 8: Cooling and Enjoying:
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy your homemade King Arthur-inspired bread!
Tips for Success:
- Use a Kitchen Scale: For the most accurate results, weigh your ingredients.
- Don't Overknead: Overkneading can result in a tough loaf.
- Check for Doneness: Use a bread thermometer to ensure the bread is fully baked.
- Experiment with Variations: Add herbs, seeds, or cheese to customize your loaf.
This detailed guide ensures your baking journey is a success. Remember, practice makes perfect. So get baking, and enjoy the delicious rewards of your efforts!
