Rescue Bread
INGREDIENTS:
- 1 1/2 cups warm water
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 packet active dry yeast
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cups flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
DIRECTIONS:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Allow it to sit for a few minutes to activate the yeast.
2. Add flour and salt to the mixture.
3. Using a KitchenAid with a dough hook attachment, mix the ingredients until the dough is smooth. It may be slightly sticky; if too dry, add a splash of water.
4. Let the dough rest for 15-20 minutes.
5. Split the dough into two loaves and place them on a baking sheet.
6. Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C). Allow the loaves to rest and rise while the oven preheats, approximately 20 minutes.
7. Before baking, slice the tops of the loaves like a traditional French baguette.
8. At the 15-minute mark of preheating, rub a cold stick of butter over the tops of the loaves for a delicious finish. Return them to the oven for the final 5 minutes. Do not skip this step; it makes the recipe!
9. Bake the loaves for a total of about 20 minutes or until golden brown.
Tips for Perfect Bread:
Extend the proofing time up to an hour for a more developed flavor and texture.
This recipe is versatile! You can use bread loaf pans instead of baking sheets. Just split the dough and place it in the loaf pans before baking.
