Yeasted Bread Recipe – Perfect for Any Baker

by Easy Eats Hub / January 9, 2025 /

Yeasted Bread Recipe – Perfect for Any Baker

When you’re looking to create a loaf of yeasted bread, you might find that the process is both straightforward and rewarding. With just a few key ingredients and some attention to detail, you can produce a bread that rivals anything from a bakery. As you mix, knead, and let the dough rise, you’ll uncover how each step builds flavor and texture. But what happens if you deviate from the recipe? The answers to this could lead to some surprising results, and it might just change how you approach baking entirely.

Key Takeaways

Combine 4 cups of flour, 2 ¼ tsp of active dry yeast, and 1 ½ tsp of salt in a mixing bowl.
Gradually add 1 ½ cups of warm water, mixing until a dough forms.
Allow the dough to rise in a warm area for 1-2 hours until doubled in size.
Shape the dough, let it rise for an additional 30 minutes, then bake at 350°F for 25-30 minutes.
Cool on a wire rack to maintain texture, and store in an airtight container.

History

Yeasted bread has its roots deep in ancient history, with evidence dating back to around 4000 B.C. in Egypt. Early Egyptians likely stumbled upon yeast by accident when spores drifted onto dough left to sit, leading to the fermentation process.

Key historical points include:

First Leavened Breads: These were probably similar to modern sourdough, utilizing natural contaminants for fermentation.
Connection to Brewing: The evolution of leavened bread is closely related to beer brewing, with barm (foam from fermentation) used for bread making.
Yeast Observation: In 1680, van Leeuwenhoek first observed yeast cells, although it took nearly 200 years to understand their fermentation role.

By the 19th century, bakers sourced yeast from beer brewers, resulting in sweeter breads like the Kaiser-Semmel roll. This shift also marked the beginning of commercial yeast production, which greatly expanded availability for home bakers.

The Vienna Process, developed in 1846, addressed yeast shortages, while Tebbenhof’s 1825 method led to yeast cube cakes, boosting production efficiency.

Reiminghaus improved industrial yeast manufacture with the filter press in 1867.

Each of these developments greatly influenced how yeasted bread is made today, paving the way for modern baking practices.

Understanding this history enriches your appreciation for bread’s transformation over time.

Recipe

Yeasted Bread Recipe

Making yeasted bread at home is a rewarding experience that fills your kitchen with delightful aromas as the bread bakes. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious loaf of bread that’s perfect for sandwiches, toast, or to accompany any meal. This recipe is easy to follow and requires minimal equipment, making it accessible to all levels of home bakers.

Begin your journey into bread-making by gathering your ingredients and setting aside some time for the dough to rise. The process involves mixing, rising, shaping, and baking, yielding a warm and crusty loaf that captures the essence of homemade bread. The rising times allow the yeast to work its magic, developing flavor and texture that can’t be replicated with store-bought bread. One of the great advantages of this recipe is the flexible rise times that can range from just a couple of hours to up to three days, providing you with options to fit your schedule.

Ingredients:
– 4 cups all-purpose or bread flour
– 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry or instant yeast
– 1 ½ teaspoons salt
– 1 ½ cups warm water (105-115°F)
– Optional: 1 tablespoon sugar or honey (to feed the yeast)

Instructions:
In a large bowl, combine the flour, yeast, and salt. Gradually add the warm water, mixing until the dough is wet and incorporates all the flour.

Cover the dough with a cloth and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours until it has doubled in size. After the first rise, gently shape the dough into your desired form, such as loaves or rolls, and let them rise again in a warm and humid environment for about 30 minutes.

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Just before baking, score the top of the dough for a decorative touch and to allow it to expand. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.

Cool on a wire rack before slicing.

Extra Tips:
To improve flavor, consider refrigerating the dough for a longer first rise; leaving it overnight can create a more complex taste.

Always check the temperature of your warm water with a thermometer to verify you don’t kill the yeast. If you’re in a particularly dry environment, place a small pan of water in the oven while baking to create steam, which helps develop a nice crust.

Finally, to maintain freshness, store your bread in a paper bag at room temperature or freeze it for later use.

Final Thoughts

Baking your own bread can be a fulfilling endeavor that not only satisfies your taste buds but also brings a sense of accomplishment.

As you wrap up your bread-making journey, keep a few final tips in mind to guarantee success.

Creating a Warm Environment: To encourage your dough to rise, preheat your oven to 180°F, then turn it off before placing the covered dough inside.
Dough Handling: After the first rise, gently punch down the dough, divide it if necessary, and shape it into loaves or place it in suitable bowls for the final rise. Quick-rise technique can significantly reduce the rising time, ensuring a more efficient process.
Baking: Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F until the bread is golden and sounds hollow when tapped.
Cooling: Once baked, let the bread cool on a wire rack to maintain its texture and prevent sogginess.
Storage: To keep your bread fresh, store it in an airtight container or freeze it if you need longer shelf life.

FAQ

Yeast Types:
– Use 1 package or 2 1/4 teaspoons of active dry yeast to replace one cake of compressed yeast.
– Active dry yeast must be softened in water; instant yeast can be used interchangeably but without softening.
– If substituting, reduce instant yeast by 20% for active dry yeast, and increase active dry yeast by 20% if switching to instant yeast.

Yeast Activation:
– Activate yeast in water heated to 105°F to 115°F. Incorrect temperatures can kill yeast.
– For best results, allow yeast to work in a draft-free environment at 80°F to 95°F. Proper temperature control is crucial for yeast’s performance during this process.

Dough Preparation and Baking:
– Knead the dough adequately for proper gluten development; insufficient kneading leads to undesirable bread.

Bake using a stone or dark pan to achieve a nice crust.
Improve the crust by brushing the top with water or egg wash.

These tips will guarantee your yeasted bread turns out perfectly every time.

Baking Recipes

Oatmeal Cookies Recipe – Soft and Chewy

by Easy Eats Hub / January 3, 2025 /

Oatmeal Cookies Recipe – Soft and Chewy

You might not know that oatmeal cookies have their origins in the 19th century when oats were a popular staple in many households. When you’re looking for a soft and chewy version of these classic cookies, there are a few key ingredients and techniques that can make all the difference. For instance, the role of an extra egg yolk can enhance the texture considerably. Curious about how to achieve that perfect balance of chewiness and flavor? You’ll want to keep these tips in mind as you prepare your next batch.

Key Takeaways

Use old-fashioned rolled oats for optimal chewiness and texture in your oatmeal cookies.
Incorporate an extra egg yolk for added moisture and richness to your cookies.
Combine brown sugar with granulated sugar for a softer and chewier cookie.
Rest the dough before baking to allow hydration, enhancing the final texture.
Aim to slightly under-bake the centers for a deliciously chewy outcome.

History

The history of oatmeal cookies traces back to 1852, when Eliza Leslie‘s cookbook, “The Complete Economical Cook,” featured one of the first written recipes combining oats with butter, sugar, and eggs. This recipe marked the beginning of a beloved treat that evolved from the traditional Scottish oatcakes, which had been enjoyed since Roman times.

Oatcakes provided quick energy boosts, serving as a convenient snack for soldiers during wartime.

Key facts to take into account include:

Nutritional Benefits: Oats are rich in fiber and essential nutrients, making oatmeal cookies suitable for those with allergies to other grains.
Evolution: The oatmeal cookie transformed over the years, with Fannie Merritt Farmer publishing the first American oatmeal cookie recipe in 1896. Quaker Oats introduced the first cookie recipe on their packaging in 1908, significantly increasing its popularity.
Cultural Impact: Quaker Oats considerably contributed to the popularity of oatmeal cookies through effective marketing in the late 1800s.

Recipe

Oatmeal cookies are a delicious and hearty treat that blends the wholesome goodness of oats with the sweet indulgence of cookie dough. These cookies come in various forms and flavors, making them a versatile option for any occasion. One of the appealing aspects of this recipe is the absence of raisins, making it suitable for those who dislike them.

Whether enjoyed with a glass of milk or as a snack on their own, oatmeal cookies can easily brighten your day. The combination of oats, butter, and sugar creates a chewy texture that’s simply irresistible, while the inclusion of nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit provides an extra layer of flavor and texture.

To prepare these delightful treats, you’ll need some common baking ingredients that can be found in most pantries. The key to achieving the perfect balance between chewy and crispy lies in the careful measurement and mixing of the ingredients.

Follow the steps below to create mouthwatering oatmeal cookies that will surely please your family and friends.

Ingredients:
– 1 cup to 1 1/2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
– 1 cup to 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 cup to 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
– 1-2 cups packed light or dark brown sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Optional add-ins: chocolate chips, chopped nuts, dried fruit, M&Ms

Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugars until the mixture is light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the rolled oats, flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon. Gradually combine the wet and dry mixtures, mixing until just combined—be careful not to overmix.

Scoop out dough balls and arrange them evenly on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space for spreading.

Extra Tips:
For an extra chewy cookie, consider adding an additional egg yolk to the batter. Incorporating a tablespoon of molasses can improve the spices and provide deeper flavor.

It’s recommended to use old-fashioned rolled oats instead of quick-cooking oats for better texture. Feel free to experiment with optional mix-ins to customize your cookies.

Finally, be sure to measure your ingredients accurately for consistent results in your final product. Enjoy your baking!

Final Thoughts

Achieving the perfect oatmeal cookie is all about understanding the little details that make a big difference. Focus on the following tips to guarantee your cookies turn out soft and chewy:

Use old-fashioned oats****: They provide a chewier texture compared to quick oats.
Incorporate an extra egg yolk****: This adds moisture and richness.
Choose brown sugar****: It helps retain softness and improves flavor.
Rest the dough: Allowing it to hydrate boosts chewiness.
Bake at 350°F: This temperature guarantees even cooking.

Ingredient quality also plays an essential role. Use real, unsalted butter for the best flavor, opt for all-purpose flour, and include moderate amounts of add-ins like chocolate chips or nuts. Additionally, incorporating aged baking powder and baking soda can further enhance the fluffiness of your cookies.

Don’t forget your leavening agents and a balance of spices for depth.

For creativity, try different add-ins or spices, and consider alternatives like coconut oil. Remember to chill the dough, avoid overbaking, and store your cookies in airtight containers to maintain freshness.

With these insights, you’re well-equipped to create delicious, chewy oatmeal cookies that everyone will enjoy. Happy baking!

FAQ

Steering through the world of oatmeal cookies can raise plenty of questions, especially when you want to perfect your baking technique.

Here’s a concise FAQ to guide you.

Ingredient Choices:

Old-fashioned oats are preferred over quick oats to maintain texture and prevent dryness.
Brown sugar combined with granulated sugar provides a soft, chewy cookie with a caramel-like flavor.
Baking soda and powder are essential for the right rise and texture.
Use unsalted butter to preserve the intended flavor profile.
Room temperature eggs facilitate better mixing and texture in your cookies. In addition to room temperature eggs, using room temperature ingredients overall helps in achieving a smoother batter.

Baking and Cooling:

Preheat your oven to 350°F for even baking.
Bake smaller cookies for 8-10 minutes and larger ones for 10-12 minutes.
Cool cookies on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
Aim for slightly under-baked centers**** for chewy results.

Storing and Variations:

Store cookies in airtight containers for freshness.
Consider adding mix-ins like raisins or chocolate chips, as variations are widely acceptable.

Use these tips to troubleshoot and improve your baking experience!

Baking Recipes

Great American Cookie Frosting Recipe – Sweet Perfection

by Easy Eats Hub / December 27, 2024 /

Great American Cookie Frosting Recipe – Sweet Perfection

If you’ve ever tasted a cookie adorned with that creamy, perfectly sweet frosting, you know it can enhance the simplest of treats. You might wonder what makes the Great American Cookie frosting so special—it’s not just about sugar and butter. The subtle nuances in texture and flavor stem from a few key ingredients that you may already have in your kitchen. Curious about how to achieve that coveted taste and stability? Let’s investigate the recipe and reveal the secrets behind this sweet perfection.

Key Takeaways

Use ½ cup unsalted butter and 2 ½ cups powdered sugar for a creamy frosting base.
Incorporate 1 tsp vanilla extract and ¼ tsp salt for enhanced flavor.
Adjust frosting consistency with 2-4 tbsp of milk to achieve desired thickness.
For decoration, add gel food coloring and sprinkles before the frosting sets.
Store leftover frosting in an airtight container for future use on cupcakes or cookies.

History

The history of Great American Cookies is a delicious tale that began in 1977 when Michael Coles and Arthur Karp opened the first store in Atlanta’s Perimeter Mall. They used a generations-old family recipe for the original cookie cake, inspired by Coles’ visit to a bustling cookie shop in San Diego.

Initially, landlords doubted the profitability of standalone cookie stores, yet the concept quickly became a mall food staple.

Some key points about this iconic dessert’s rise include:

Immediate Hit: The first store’s success established the cookie cake as a favorite treat.
Cultural Significance: Cookie cakes often feature at children’s birthday parties and in college sports recruiting.
Innovative Marketing: The use of personalized cookie cakes grew particularly notable after football coach Bob Sutton introduced them in 1991.
Versatility: Compared to traditional cakes, cookie cakes offer sturdiness and are easily customizable. Additionally, their appeal is further strengthened by the nostalgia associated with their presence in nostalgic memories of many families over the years.

Although Great American Cookies has expanded beyond malls, its impactful history as a prominent mall dessert remains central to its identity.

Today, cookie cakes continue to evoke nostalgia while enchanting new generations with their deliciousness.

Recipe

To create a delicious frosting perfect for your cookie cakes and other desserts, start with the right balance of sweetness and creaminess. This basic frosting recipe utilizes unsalted butter and powdered sugar to provide a rich, decadent flavor. By incorporating meringue powder, you’re guaranteeing a stable texture that holds up beautifully when piped or spread. The royal icing technique allows for intricate cookie decorations that remain intact, highlighting the versatility of frosting in baking.

The addition of vanilla extract improves the frosting’s flavor, while the inclusion of milk or water allows you to adjust the consistency to your liking—whether you want it thick for piping or a bit runnier for spreading.

Once you have the foundational ingredients ready, the fun begins with customization! Feel free to add gel food coloring for a vibrant look, or infuse different flavors like lemon or cookies & cream to match your cake or cookie theme.

With a little creativity, you can also mix in fun textures like sprinkles or crushed cookies. This frosting isn’t only versatile but also forgiving, making it easy to adjust as you perfect your technique.

Ingredients:
– ½ cup unsalted butter
– 2 ½ cups powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– ¼ teaspoon salt
– 2-4 tablespoons milk

Instructions:
In a large mixing bowl, beat the unsalted butter on medium-high speed until it’s smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, about ¼ cup at a time, mixing well and scraping down the sides as needed.

Once all the powdered sugar is incorporated, add the vanilla extract and salt, followed by 2 tablespoons of milk. Mix until smooth, and if the frosting is too thick, add additional milk one tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency.

Tips:
For the best results, verify your butter is at room temperature before you start mixing. This helps achieve that creamy texture more easily.

If you’re aiming for a stiff frosting for piping decorations, add more powdered sugar as needed. Conversely, if you prefer to spread it easily over cookies or cakes, a little more milk will help thin it out.

Don’t forget to decorate with sprinkles before the frosting sets, so your creativity shines through!

Final Thoughts

To conclude, Great American Cookie frosting isn’t just a sweet addition; it’s the ideal way to improve your cookie creations. This frosting, often found in iconic treats like Double Doozies, brings a smooth and sweet flavor profile that complements the cookies beautifully. Notably, the Peanut Butter Supreme Double Doozie contains a satisfying amount of calories, making it a rich indulgence to pair with this creamy frosting.

When you’re assembling your cookies, simply spread about 1 tablespoon of frosting on one cookie and press the underside of another on top. This method not only intensifies the taste but also maintains freshness, as the frosting remains soft and enjoyable.

If you have leftover frosting, don’t hesitate to use it for other baked goods like cupcakes. The versatility of the frosting makes it a handy addition to your baking endeavors.

To keep your assembled cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature or freeze them for later enjoyment.

Great American Cookies emphasizes freshness, baking daily for peak taste. Their extensive menu includes a variety of cookies, brownies, and cheesecakes, allowing for customization and creativity in your dessert choices.

With beautiful flavors and a focus on quality, Great American Cookie frosting is an excellent choice for all your sweet cravings.

FAQ

In the domain of Great American Cookie frosting, many questions arise about its distinctive qualities and uses. Here’s a breakdown to address some common inquiries.

What is Great American Cookie Frosting? It’s a blend of butter, powdered sugar, meringue powder, and flavorings, with a hint of salt, creating a fudgy texture that’s different from typical buttercream.
What makes it special? Its simple recipe not only guarantees quick preparation but also gives a distinctive texture that improves your baked goods. Additionally, it’s designed to complement treats like Double Doozies, enhancing their flavor and appeal.
Can I customize it? Absolutely! You can add various flavors or colors to make your frosting specifically yours.
What can I use it for? This frosting is versatile, perfect for cakes, cupcakes, cookies, and other treats.
How do I store it? You can keep it at room temperature or refrigerate it for later use.
Is it similar to royal icing? No, royal icing differs greatly as it’s primarily used for decorating and is made with water, not butter.

These points highlight the flexibility and distinct characteristics that make Great American Cookie frosting a rewarding choice for all your baking needs.

Baking Recipes

Buttery Iced Biscuits Recipe – Perfect Breakfast or Snack

by Easy Eats Hub / December 20, 2024 /

Buttery Iced Biscuits Recipe – Perfect Breakfast or Snack

When you think about breakfast or snack options, buttery iced biscuits might not be the first thing that comes to mind, but they should be. With their rich flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture, these biscuits offer a perfect balance of simplicity and indulgence. You’ll find that whipping them up requires just a handful of ingredients, making them accessible for anyone. As you consider the potential additions to really enhance your biscuits, you’ll begin to appreciate how they can fit seamlessly into any part of your day. Curious about how to get started?

Key Takeaways

This buttery iced biscuits recipe includes simple ingredients like unsalted butter, icing sugar, and plain flour, perfect for breakfast or a snack.
Chilling the dough for at least one hour ensures a tender and light texture, enhancing the biscuit’s quality.
Bake the biscuits at 160C fan for 12 minutes to achieve a golden finish and delightful taste.
Serve warm with toppings like strawberries or ice cream for a delicious treat that everyone will enjoy.
Store leftover biscuits in an airtight container to maintain freshness and enjoy them as a quick snack later.

History

The history of biscuits is as rich and layered as their delightful texture. They originated in medieval Europe, deriving from the Latin word “biscotus,” signifying twice-baked. Early on, Roman soldiers relied on biscuits as part of their rations, enjoying their durability.

In 1588, these baked goods made their way to Great Britain, where they became essential for sailors in the Royal Navy. As biscuits traveled to colonial America, their quick baking time and minimal ingredients made them a staple. In the Southern colonies, the combination of successful wheat harvests, buttermilk, and lard improved their flavor and texture. This adaptation showcased the importance of fresh flour in biscuit-making, a key factor contributing to their unique Southern style.

Consider these notable developments:

Unleavened Origins: The earliest biscuits lacked leaveners until the mid-19th century.
Southern Flour: The introduction of Southern flour led to tender, feather-light biscuits.
Innovative Tools: The spring-loaded biscuit cutter, invented by Alexander Ashbourne in the late 1800s, refined biscuit-making.
Convenient Options: The 20th century saw the emergence of pre-mixed biscuit mixes and refrigerated dough, increasing accessibility.

Through these advancements, biscuits grew from simple military rations into beloved culinary delights in America.

Recipe

Buttery Iced Biscuits Recipe

These buttery iced biscuits are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. With their soft, crumbly texture and sweet icing, they’re sure to be a hit with family and friends. The dough is simple to prepare, requiring just a few basic ingredients, and can be easily customized with different shapes and decorations to suit your celebration or mood. The recipe yields a large batch, making it ideal for sharing (especially during cozy, rainy weekends).

Whether you’re enjoying them with a cup of tea or serving them at a gathering, these biscuits are a crowd-pleaser. To start off, you’ll need to make the butter biscuit dough, which entails creaming together softened butter and icing sugar until light and fluffy. After incorporating the egg yolk and vanilla, you’ll sift in the flour and mix until a firm dough forms. Once chilled, you can roll out the dough and cut it into your desired shapes, paving the way for the delicious baking process.

Ingredients:
– 250g softened unsalted butter
– 140g icing sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 large free-range egg yolk
– 375g plain flour
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for icing)
– 1 to 2 tablespoons milk (for icing)
– 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (for icing)

To prepare the biscuits, begin by preheating your oven to 160C fan/350F/Gas Mark 4 and lining your baking sheets with parchment paper. Beat the softened butter with icing sugar until it becomes very pale and fluffy.

Add in the vanilla extract and egg yolk, mixing well. Gradually sift in the plain flour and combine until you have a firm dough. Wrap the dough in cling film and refrigerate for at least one hour.

Once chilled, roll the dough to a 1/4″ thickness and cut out shapes. Place the cut biscuits onto the lined baking sheets and bake in the preheated oven for about 12 minutes, until they’re pale golden. Allow the biscuits to cool on a wire rack before icing them with your prepared mixture of powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla.

When it comes to icing and decorating your biscuits, remember to let them cool fully before adding the icing to prevent it from melting. For the icing, adjust the consistency by adding more milk if needed.

Feel free to get creative with your decorations; use contrasting colored icing, sprinkles, or edible glitters to make your biscuits stand out. Finally, store any leftovers in an airtight container to maintain their freshness, and enjoy these delicious treats as a delightful snack or breakfast option!

Final Thoughts

Enjoying buttery iced biscuits can improve any gathering or meal. Their versatility makes them an excellent choice for various occasions. You can serve them with an array of toppings such as strawberries, ice cream, or honey, or pair them with savory dishes like bacon or sausage for breakfast. They even complement soups and chilis as a hearty side.

To achieve the ideal biscuit, keep a few key points in mind:

Quality Ingredients: Use cold butter and high-quality flour for the best texture. Additionally, you might consider using buttermilk for tenderness to enhance flavor.
Handling and Storage: Minimize dough handling to keep the butter cold. Store unused dough in the refrigerator or freezer, and feel free to make biscuits in advance.
Serving Suggestions: Enjoy them with butter and jam for a simple treat or use them as a base for delightful desserts, like strawberries and cream.

For maximum freshness, serve the biscuits warm, ideally right after baking, though they can be reheated.

FAQ

Questions often arise when baking buttery iced biscuits, and addressing them can simplify your baking experience. Here are some common FAQs that can help:

Butter Handling:

Use room temperature butter for easy mixing and a creamy texture.
If you want flaky biscuits, keep in mind that cold butter is essential.
You can use either unsalted or salted butter. European butter adds extra saltiness.

Icing and Sugar:

Always sift icing sugar to prevent lumps in your icing.
For a smooth icing, use warm water or lemon juice.
Caster sugar can help achieve a smoother texture.

Baking Techniques:

Chill your dough to make it easier to handle.
Roll out dough thinly for even baking and consistent texture.
Gather and re-roll scraps effectively to minimize waste. Additionally, baking during the first weekend of December is a popular tradition in German Christmas and can inspire more festive baking.

Ingredient Choices:

Improve flavor with mixed spices or vanilla extract.
Use buttermilk or milk for moisture.
Low-protein flours help keep biscuits light and fluffy.

Category: Baking Recipes