If you have a passion for bread-making and working with yeast, you’re in for a treat! This delightful bread recipe is a staple in the Bread 101 class, and it’s not only delicious but also beginner-friendly. Whether you’re an experienced bread baker or a novice looking to try your hand at baking, this Cardamom Pan Bread will win your heart. The addition of cardamom brings a beautiful fragrance and flavor, elevating this loaf to new heights. Once baked, this bread is perfect for various dishes, such as toast, grilled cheese, BLTs, and, of course, a delectable French toast.
YIELD: Makes 4 hearty loaves
INGREDIENTS:
- 4 cups warm water
- 1⅔ cups dried milk powder
- 4 tablespoons melted butter, cooled slightly
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 cup (192 grams) granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons (18 grams) active dry yeast or 2 scant tablespoons instant yeast
- ½ teaspoon (1–2 grams) ground cardamom
- 12 cups (1500 grams) all-purpose flour or bread flour
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Oil or cooking spray for preparing the pans
INSTRUCTIONS:
- Activate the Yeast (if using active dry yeast): Take ½ cup of warm water and sprinkle the yeast with 1 teaspoon of sugar. Let it rest until it becomes foamy. If using instant yeast, skip this step.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine all the ingredients except the egg.
- Mix and Rest: Mix the ingredients until combined and shaggy. Turn the dough out onto a work surface and cover it with the bowl. Allow the dough to rest for 5 minutes.
- Knead the Dough: Uncover the dough and knead it until it becomes smooth and can form a gluten window.
- Shape the Dough: Divide the dough into four equal pieces and cover them with a towel. Let them rest for about 5 minutes. To shape pan loaves, gently press the dough into a 6×8 inch rectangle, fold, and seal to create a cylinder shape.
- Rise and Preheat: Place the shaped dough in lightly oiled loaf pans and cover them. Allow the dough to rise until it reaches 1 inch above the pan. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Egg Wash and Slashes: Whisk the egg and brush it over the top of the bread. Using a sharp serrated knife, make three diagonal slashes across the top of the bread.
- Bake: Bake the bread for 25 to 30 minutes until it turns deep golden and the internal temperature reaches 180°F (82°C).
- Cool and Enjoy: Remove the pans from the oven and let them cool on a rack with the bread on its side. Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing and enjoying.
TIPS:
- For those new to bread-making, don’t be intimidated by the process. This recipe provides clear instructions, and with a little practice, you’ll master the art of baking this delicious loaf.
- If using active dry yeast, ensure that it is properly activated by sprinkling it in warm water with a teaspoon of sugar. This will create a foamy mixture, indicating that the yeast is active and ready to go.
- The key to achieving a smooth and well-developed dough is proper kneading. Follow the kneading technique provided in the instructions to create a gluten window, ensuring your dough is ready for the first rise.
- When shaping the pan loaves, pay attention to the folding and sealing process. This helps create a smooth and beautifully shaped loaf without any open spaces in the finished product.
- To test if your bread is fully baked, use a combination of cues. Check the internal temperature with an instant-read thermometer, observe the color of the sides and bottom, and listen for a hollow sound when tapping the end of the loaf.
This Cardamom Pan Bread will become a family favorite, and the fragrance of freshly baked bread will fill your kitchen, bringing joy to all who gather around the table. Enjoy the process of bread-making, and savor the delightful results!
