Turn Your Kitchenaid Mixer Into A Bread Making Machine – Learn How To Make White Bread Like A Pro!

Embark on a culinary adventure as we delve into the intricacies of how to make white bread with a KitchenAid mixer. This comprehensive guide will empower you with the knowledge and techniques to create artisanal loaves that will tantalize your taste buds and elevate your baking skills to new heights.

Ingredients: A Symphony of Flour, Yeast, and More

• 3 cups (360g) bread flour
• 1 1/2 cups (360ml) warm water (105-115°F)
• 2 1/4 teaspoons (7g) active dry yeast
• 1 tablespoon (15g) sugar
• 1 1/2 teaspoons (9g) salt

Step 1: Activating the Yeast

In the bowl of your KitchenAid mixer fitted with the dough hook attachment, combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar. Stir gently to dissolve the yeast and sugar. Allow the mixture to rest for 5-10 minutes, or until it becomes foamy and bubbly.

Step 2: Adding the Flour and Salt

Add 2 cups of bread flour to the yeast mixture and mix on low speed until just combined. Gradually add the remaining 1 cup of flour, mixing until a dough forms. The dough should be slightly sticky but not too wet. If the dough is too sticky, add more flour 1 tablespoon at a time. If the dough is too dry, add 1-2 tablespoons of water.

Step 3: Kneading the Dough

Increase the mixer speed to medium and knead the dough for 5-7 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. The dough should pass the windowpane test, which means when you stretch a small piece of dough between your fingers, it should form a thin, translucent membrane without tearing.

Step 4: First Rise

Grease a large bowl and place the dough inside. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the dough rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

Step 5: Punching Down and Shaping

Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air bubbles. Divide the dough in half and shape it into two loaves. Place the loaves on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 6: Second Rise

Cover the loaves with plastic wrap and let them rise in a warm place for 30-45 minutes, or until they have almost doubled in size.

Step 7: Baking

Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C). Brush the tops of the loaves with water and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and crusty.

Step 8: Cooling and Enjoying

Remove the loaves from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips for Perfect White Bread

• Use high-quality bread flour for the best results.
• Make sure the water is warm enough to activate the yeast, but not too hot or it will kill the yeast.
• Knead the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic, as this will develop the gluten and give the bread its chewy texture.
• Let the dough rise in a warm place to encourage the yeast to grow and produce carbon dioxide, which will create the airy texture of the bread.
• Brush the tops of the loaves with water before baking to create a crispy crust.

Troubleshooting Common Problems

• If the dough is too sticky, add more flour.
• If the dough is too dry, add more water.
• If the dough doesn’t rise, make sure the yeast is active and the water is warm enough.
• If the bread is too dense, knead the dough longer.
• If the bread is too brown, reduce the oven temperature or baking time.

FAQ

1. Can I use other types of flour to make white bread?

Yes, you can use all-purpose flour or a combination of bread flour and all-purpose flour. However, bread flour will produce a chewier bread with a better texture.

2. How can I store white bread?

White bread can be stored at room temperature for 2-3 days. For longer storage, freeze the bread for up to 3 months.

3. Can I make white bread without a KitchenAid mixer?

Yes, you can make white bread without a KitchenAid mixer, but it will require more manual kneading.