How to Bake the Perfect KitchenAid Whole Wheat Bread Recipe
Guide or Summary：IngredientsEquipmentInstructionsTipsBaking a loaf of bread at home is not just a culinary adventure; it's an art form that requires precisi……
Guide or Summary：
Baking a loaf of bread at home is not just a culinary adventure; it's an art form that requires precision, patience, and a dash of creativity. One of the most popular choices for those seeking a healthier alternative to traditional white bread is the KitchenAid whole wheat bread recipe. This guide will walk you through the process of transforming a simple dough mix into a delicious, wholesome loaf that's perfect for breakfast, sandwiches, or even a hearty dinner.
Ingredients
To start, you'll need the following ingredients for your KitchenAid whole wheat bread recipe:
- 2 cups whole wheat flour
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup warm water (110°F to 115°F)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 large eggs
Equipment
Before you dive into the recipe, ensure you have the necessary equipment:
- KitchenAid stand mixer with dough hook attachment
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon
- 9x5-inch bread pan or Dutch oven
- Parchment paper
- Oven mitts
- Wire rack
Instructions
1. **Activate the Yeast**: In a small bowl, dissolve the sugar and yeast in the warm water. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy. This indicates that the yeast is active and ready to use.
2. **Mix the Dough**: In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture, olive oil, and eggs. Using the dough hook attachment on your KitchenAid stand mixer, start on a low speed and gradually increase the speed to medium-high. Mix until the dough becomes smooth and elastic, about 5-7 minutes.
3. **First Rise**: Once the dough is well-mixed, transfer it to a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours or until it has doubled in size.
4. **Punch Down and Shape**: After the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Lightly flour your work surface and turn the dough out onto it. Shape the dough into a log and place it in a greased 9x5-inch bread pan or Dutch oven. If using a Dutch oven, place it in a preheated oven set to 375°F (190°C) to proof the dough for about 30 minutes.
5. **Second Rise**: Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rise again for about 30-45 minutes, or until it has risen to the top of the pan.
6. **Bake**: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once the dough has risen to the top of the pan, place it in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
7. **Cool**: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully remove it from the pan and transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Tips
- **Preparing the Yeast**: The yeast mixture should be warm, not hot, to activate the yeast properly.
- **Measuring Ingredients**: Use a kitchen scale for the most accurate measurements, especially when baking bread.
- **Proofing the Dough**: Proofing the dough in a warm place helps it rise evenly and prevents dense, heavy bread.
- **Scoring the Bread**: Before baking, you can score the top of the bread with a sharp knife to create a decorative pattern that helps control the rise.
Baking your own bread, especially with a wholesome recipe like the KitchenAid whole wheat bread, is a rewarding experience that yields delicious results. By following this guide, you'll be able to create a perfect loaf of bread that's both healthy and satisfying. Whether you're making breakfast sandwiches or a hearty dinner, your homemade whole wheat bread is sure to impress. Enjoy the process and the taste of freshly baked bread!