There’s something truly magical about the aroma of fresh bread wafting through your kitchen, and with this foolproof Breadman bread recipe, you can achieve bakery-quality results with minimal effort. While I’m typically not a fan of single-purpose appliances, the convenience of adding ingredients, pressing a button, and having perfect bread three hours later has completely won me over.
This Breadman bread recipe transforms simple pantry staples into a gorgeously textured, flavorful loaf that rivals any artisan bakery. The beauty lies in its simplicity – no kneading, no guesswork about rising times, and no need to heat up your entire oven.
Whether you’re a busy parent, a novice baker, or someone who simply loves the convenience of fresh homemade bread, this Breadman bread recipe will become your go-to solution for consistently delicious results that will impress your family and friends.
My Personal Experience with This Breadman Bread Recipe
I discovered my Breadman machine about six or seven years ago at Ali’s Bargain Outlet for just $30, and it’s been one of my most treasured kitchen investments. Initially skeptical about bread machines, I quickly realized that having fresh bread available whenever I wanted it was a game-changer for my household.
Over the years, I’ve perfected this Breadman bread recipe through countless trials and adjustments. I’ve learned that the original recipes that come with most bread machines need tweaking to achieve optimal results. The key breakthrough came when I started adjusting water temperature and ingredient timing based on my understanding of how yeast works.
What I love most about this Breadman bread recipe is its reliability. I’ve made it dozens of times, and each loaf comes out with that perfect, even crumb structure and golden crust. The satisfaction of slicing into a warm, homemade loaf never gets old, and my family has come to expect this delicious bread as part of our regular meal rotation.
Ingredients Required for This Breadman Bread Recipe
- 1½ cups water (heated to 100-110°F)
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
- 3 tablespoons dry skim milk powder
- 4 cups bread flour (may need slight adjustment)
- 1¼ teaspoons salt
Kitchen Utensils List
- Breadman bread machine
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Small whisk
- Thermometer (for water temperature)
- Clean kitchen towel
- Sharp bread knife
- Butter knife (for removing paddle)
- Cooling rack
Preparation and Cooking Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Machine Cycle Time: 3 hours
Cooling Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 3 hours 40 minutes
Serves: 12-16 slices
Recipe Instructions for This Breadman Bread Recipe
- Prepare the yeast mixture: Add water (100-110°F), yeast, and sugar to the bread machine pan. Ensure the mixing paddle is properly inserted. Whisk gently to hydrate the yeast and let sit for 5-10 minutes if using older yeast to verify it’s still active.
- Add wet ingredients: Add the softened butter and dry milk powder to the yeast mixture in the pan.
- Add dry ingredients: Pour in the bread flour, then sprinkle the salt on top of the flour (keeping it separated from the yeast initially).
- Start the machine: Close the lid, select “White Bread” setting for a 2-pound loaf, and press start.
- Check consistency: After 10 minutes of mixing, check that the dough is cleaning the sides of the pan. Add 1-2 tablespoons of water if too dry, or 1-2 tablespoons of flour if too sticky.
- Let it run: Allow the machine to complete its full cycle (approximately 3 hours total).
- Cool and remove: Once finished, let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a cooling rack. Remove the paddle with a butter knife.
- Slice and serve: Use a sharp bread knife with a sawing motion to slice once completely cooled.
Storage Guidance for Leftover Breadman Bread
Store your finished bread in an airtight container or bread bag at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, slice and freeze portions in freezer bags for up to 3 months. Thaw individual slices as needed, or toast directly from frozen for best results.
Serving Ideas for This Breadman Bread
- Classic Toast Bar: Slice and toast, serving with various spreads like butter, jam, honey, or avocado for a customizable breakfast or snack station.
- Gourmet Sandwiches: Use thick slices for hearty sandwiches filled with deli meats, cheeses, and fresh vegetables for lunch or dinner.
- French Toast Delight: Transform day-old slices into decadent French toast by soaking in egg custard and pan-frying until golden brown.
- Bread Bowl Soups: Hollow out individual portions to create edible bread bowls perfect for serving hearty soups or stews.
- Homemade Croutons: Cube leftover bread, toss with olive oil and seasonings, then bake until crispy for salad toppings or soup garnishes.
Tips for This Breadman Bread Recipe
- Temperature Matters: Use water heated to 100-110°F rather than the machine’s suggested 80-90°F to ensure optimal yeast activation and consistent rising.
- Ingredient Order: Always add liquids first, then dry ingredients, with salt added last on top of flour to prevent direct contact with yeast.
- Check the Dough: Monitor consistency after 10 minutes of mixing and adjust with small amounts of water or flour as needed for proper texture.
- Measure Accurately: Pre-measure all ingredients before starting to avoid forgetting crucial components like salt or milk powder that significantly impact flavor.
- Paddle Placement: Always ensure the mixing paddle is properly seated before adding ingredients, and remove it promptly after baking to prevent a large hole in your loaf.
This Breadman bread recipe proves that homemade bread doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. With just a few simple adjustments to traditional bread machine recipes, you can consistently produce bakery-quality loaves that will fill your home with incredible aromas and provide your family with wholesome, delicious bread.
Ready to transform your kitchen into a mini bakery? Dust off that bread machine and give this recipe a try today!
Breadman Bread Recipe
Ingredients
- 1½ cups water heated to 100-110°F
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter softened
- 3 tablespoons dry skim milk powder
- 4 cups bread flour may need slight adjustment
- 1¼ teaspoons salt
Instructions
- Prepare the yeast mixture: Add water (100-110°F), yeast, and sugar to the bread machine pan. Ensure the mixing paddle is properly inserted. Whisk gently to hydrate the yeast and let sit for 5-10 minutes if using older yeast to verify it’s still active.
- Add wet ingredients: Add the softened butter and dry milk powder to the yeast mixture in the pan.
- Add dry ingredients: Pour in the bread flour, then sprinkle the salt on top of the flour (keeping it separated from the yeast initially).
- Start the machine: Close the lid, select “White Bread” setting for a 2-pound loaf, and press start.
- Check consistency: After 10 minutes of mixing, check that the dough is cleaning the sides of the pan. Add 1-2 tablespoons of water if too dry, or 1-2 tablespoons of flour if too sticky.
- Let it run: Allow the machine to complete its full cycle (approximately 3 hours total).
- Cool and remove: Once finished, let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a cooling rack. Remove the paddle with a butter knife.
- Slice and serve: Use a sharp bread knife with a sawing motion to slice once completely cooled.
Video
Notes
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour for this recipe?
While bread flour is recommended for its higher protein content that creates better structure, you can substitute all-purpose flour. Your loaf may be slightly less chewy and have a more tender crumb, but it will still be delicious.
What should I do if my bread collapses during baking?
Bread collapse usually occurs from too much yeast, too much liquid, or high altitude baking. Try reducing yeast by ¼ teaspoon and ensure your measurements are accurate. In humid conditions, you may also need slightly less water.
How do I know if my yeast is still good before starting?
Test your yeast by mixing it with warm water and sugar as directed in step 1. If it doesn’t foam or bubble within 10 minutes, your yeast is likely expired and should be replaced before proceeding.
Can I add nuts, seeds, or dried fruit to this basic recipe?
Yes! Add ½ to ¾ cup of mix-ins during the last 10 minutes of the kneading cycle, or use your machine’s “add-in” signal if it has one. This prevents over-mixing while ensuring even distribution.
Why does my bread have a dense, heavy texture?
Dense bread typically results from too much flour, old yeast, or water that’s too hot (which kills yeast). Ensure accurate measurements, use fresh yeast, and verify water temperature with a thermometer.
How long should I let the bread cool before slicing?
Allow the bread to cool completely, about 30 minutes to 1 hour, before slicing. Cutting too early can result in a gummy texture as the interior is still steaming and setting.
Can I double this recipe for a larger loaf?
This recipe is specifically formulated for a 2-pound loaf capacity. Doubling would exceed most bread machine capacities and could cause overflow. For larger quantities, make multiple batches instead.
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simply good and delicious