Honey, that liquid gold, isn’t just for your tea. It’s a fantastic addition to bread, lending a subtle sweetness and a beautiful golden hue. This Bread Recipe With Honey is simple enough for beginners, yet delivers a loaf so delicious, it’ll become a household staple. Let’s dive into the heartwarming world of honey-infused bread making!
Table Of Contents
Why You Should Try This Honey Bread Recipe
This bread recipe with honey offers a unique flavor profile that sets it apart from traditional loaves. The honey adds a gentle sweetness that complements both savory and sweet toppings. It also contributes to a soft and moist crumb, keeping your bread fresh for longer. Plus, the aroma that fills your kitchen while it’s baking? Pure heaven. I remember the first time I baked with honey – the scent alone transported me back to my grandmother’s kitchen, where the smell of freshly baked bread always welcomed us. This recipe is a perfect blend of simplicity and deliciousness.
Ingredients for honey bread
Gathering Your Ingredients for Honey Bread
This honey bread requires just a few pantry staples:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
- 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 ¼ cups warm water (105-115°F)
- ¼ cup honey
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt
Having high-quality ingredients ensures the best results. For example, using raw, unfiltered honey will provide a more intense flavor and added health benefits. For those looking for a healthier option, you might consider a bread recipe no sugar.
Kneading Your Way to Perfection
Now, let’s get our hands doughy! In a large bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water. Add the honey and stir to combine. Next, gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until a shaggy dough forms. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, or until smooth and elastic. Don’t be afraid to put some muscle into it – kneading is key to developing the gluten that gives bread its structure. The dough should spring back when you poke it gently with your finger. If it feels too sticky, add a sprinkle of flour. Just like achieving a how to make bread crust shiny, kneading is crucial.
Kneading dough for honey bread
The Rise and Shine: Proofing Your Honey Dough
Place the kneaded dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size. This is called the first proofing, and it’s essential for creating a light and airy loaf. Patience is a virtue in bread making! While your dough is rising, you might want to explore this fascinating article on how to make bread with soft crust.
Shaping and Baking Your Honey Bread
Once the dough has doubled, gently punch it down to release the air. Shape the dough into a loaf and place it in a greased 9×5 inch loaf pan. Cover the pan and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until almost doubled. 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).
Honey bread loaf in a pan
Cooling and Enjoying Your Masterpiece
Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. The aroma will be tempting, but resist slicing into it right away. Allowing the bread to cool completely prevents a gummy texture. Once cooled, slice and enjoy your homemade honey bread! It’s delicious on its own, toasted with butter, or as a base for sandwiches. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding oats for a different texture and flavor profile with a bread recipe with oats. You could also incorporate some fruit, similar to this fantastic bread recipe with fruit.
“Honey adds a unique touch to bread,” says renowned baker, Amelia Hearthstone. “It not only enhances the flavor but also improves the texture, resulting in a soft and moist crumb.”
Conclusion: The Sweet Reward of Baking
This bread recipe with honey is a testament to the simple joys of baking. With just a few ingredients and some patience, you can create a loaf that’s both delicious and rewarding. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and experience the magic of baking with honey.
Sliced honey bread
FAQ
- Can I use different types of honey? Yes, absolutely! Different varieties of honey will impart unique flavors to your bread.
- Can I use whole wheat flour? Yes, you can substitute up to half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and denser texture.
- My bread didn’t rise. What went wrong? The yeast might be old, or the water might not have been the correct temperature. Make sure your yeast is fresh and the water is between 105-115°F.
- How do I store my honey bread? Store your bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
- Can I add other ingredients to my honey bread? Certainly! Nuts, seeds, and dried fruits are all delicious additions.
- What can I serve with honey bread? Honey bread is delicious with butter, jam, cheese, or even as a base for French toast.
- How can I tell if my bread is done baking? The bread should be golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. You can also use a food thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 200°F (93°C).
