Honey-Infused Artisan Bread Delight
Experience the warmth of homemade bread with a sweet twist. This honey-infused artisan bread is perfect for breakfast or as a delightful side for any meal.
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 40 minutes
- Total time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 2 loaves
Ingredients
- 2 packages regular active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup warm water (105°F to 115°F)
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup butter or margarine
- 3 teaspoons salt
- 2 1/2 cups warm water
- 4 1/2 cups red fife home milled flour
- 1 tablespoon wheat gluten
- 1 teaspoon distalt powder
- 2 3/4 to 3 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions
- In a small bowl, dissolve yeast in 1/4 cup warm water.
- In a large bowl, mix honey, butter, salt, and 2 1/2 cups of warm water. Cool for 5 minutes.
- To the cooled mixture, beat in 393 grams of red fife flour with an electric mixer on low, scraping until moistened. Beat on medium speed for 3 minutes, scraping the bowl frequently.
- Add the remaining 196.5 grams of red fife flour, dissolved yeast, vital wheat gluten, and distalt powder.
- With a stand mixer fitted with a hook, stir in 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour until the dough pulls away from the sides of the bowl. Then add 1/2 to 1 cup of flour and knead for 8 to 10 minutes until smooth and springy.
- Oil a large bowl, place the dough in it, turning once to grease all sides. Let rise in a warm place for 45 minutes, or until doubled in size, covered with plastic wrap or a towel.
- Generously grease or spray two (8x4 or 9x5 inch) bread pans. Deflate the dough and divide it in half. On a lightly floured surface, roll each half into an 18x8 rectangle.
- Starting from one 8-inch side, roll the dough tightly, pressing with your thumb to seal after each turn. Pinch each end to seal, fold ends under, and place seam side down in the pan. Cover and let rise for another 45 minutes or until doubled.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F. Uncover the dough and bake for 30 minutes.
- Lower the temperature to 350°F and bake for an additional 10 minutes. (Cover with foil after the first 20 minutes if desired, and butter the loaves while still hot.)
- Remove from pans and cool completely for about 1 hour before slicing.
Nutritional Information
Nutritional values may vary based on ingredients used. Approximate values per slice: Calories: 120, Carbs: 25g, Protein: 3g, Fat: 1g.
Recipe Overview
Difficulty Level: Intermediate
Equipment Needed: Mixing bowls, stand mixer, bread pans, plastic wrap, kitchen towel, oven.
Kitchen Tips: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for optimal blending. Use a thermometer to monitor water temperature for yeast activation.
Make-Ahead Options: Prepare the dough up to the first rise, then refrigerate it overnight. Allow it to come to room temperature before shaping.
Ingredient Deep Dive
Quality Selection Guide: Choose active dry yeast that is fresh and stored in a cool, dry place. Look for local honey for better flavor.
Storage Tips: Store bread in a paper bag at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze slices in an airtight container.
Substitutions: Use maple syrup or agave nectar instead of honey for a different sweetness. Whole wheat flour can replace red fife flour for a denser texture.
Measurement Conversions: 1 cup of flour = 120 grams; 1 tablespoon = 15 milliliters.
Expert Techniques
Professional Tips: Knead the dough until it passes the windowpane test, where it stretches without tearing.
Common Mistakes: Over-proofing the dough can lead to a dense loaf; keep an eye on the rising times.
Visual Cues: The dough should double in size during rising; it will feel slightly sticky but should not stick to your fingers.
Equipment Alternatives: If you lack a stand mixer, knead by hand on a floured surface for 10-15 minutes.
Serving & Presentation
Plating Suggestions: Serve slices on a wooden board with a small dish of honey for drizzling.
Food Pairing: Pairs well with butter, cheese, or soups.
Portion Guidelines: Aim for 1-2 slices per serving, depending on accompaniments.
Special Occasions: Ideal for brunch gatherings or as a festive gift wrapped in parchment paper.
Nutrition & Health
Detailed Nutrition: Each slice provides a balanced source of carbohydrates, protein, and minimal fat.
Health Benefits: Honey offers natural sweetness and antioxidants, while whole grains support digestive health.
Dietary Considerations: Can be adapted for vegan diets by using plant-based butter and alternative sweeteners.
Wellness Tips: Enjoy in moderation as part of a balanced diet, especially when paired with protein-rich foods.
Storage & Reheating
Storage Methods
Store your honey-infused artisan bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer freshness, wrap the bread in plastic wrap and place it in a resealable bag.
Freezing Guidelines
Wrap cooled loaves tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To maintain quality, label with the date.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat, unwrap the bread and place it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes. Alternatively, you can toast slices in a toaster or grill for a crispy texture.
Food Safety
Always ensure bread is completely cooled before freezing to prevent condensation. Discard any bread that shows signs of mold or an off smell.
Variations & Adaptations
Seasonal Versions
Incorporate ingredients like cranberries or walnuts during fall, or add fresh herbs like rosemary in spring for a unique twist.
Dietary Modifications
For gluten-free options, substitute gluten-free flour blends and omit the vital wheat gluten. Honey can be replaced with agave syrup for a vegan version.
Scaling Instructions
Easily double or halve the recipe by adjusting the ingredients accordingly, maintaining the same ratios for consistent results.
Budget Options
Use all-purpose flour instead of specialty flours to reduce costs, and consider local honey for a more affordable sweetener.
Troubleshooting FAQ
Common Problems
If your bread doesn t rise, check the yeast freshness or the temperature of the water used during activation.
Quick Fixes
For dense bread, adding a bit more warm water and kneading longer can help improve texture.
Expert Solutions
If the crust is too hard, try reducing the baking time or covering the loaves with foil during the last part of baking.
Time Management
Prepare ingredients the night before and let them sit in the fridge. This shortens the active time needed on baking day.
Community & Sharing
Serving for Events
This bread makes a wonderful addition to holiday gatherings or potlucks; consider slicing and serving with local jams or cheeses.
Cultural Notes
Honey has been used in breadmaking across cultures, symbolizing sweetness and sharing in many traditions.
Recipe History
Artisan bread has roots in ancient baking practices, evolving into various regional styles, with honey as a beloved ingredient in many cultures.
Batch Cooking
Consider making multiple batches to freeze and enjoy later; this is perfect for busy weeks or unexpected guests.