Hello, bread enthusiasts! Today, we're diving into the world of bread-making, but with a delightful twist. We're going to create not one, not two, but three different types of delicious deli-style bread, and we're doing it all with the help of freezer bags. It's a no-fuss, no-mess, and incredibly convenient way to bake your own bread at home.
I discovered this fantastic recipe on Cotta, and I couldn't wait to share it with you. So, let's roll up our sleeves, grab those freezer bags, and start baking!
Ingredients:
For the Basic Bread Dough:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (about 2 1/4 teaspoons) of active dry yeast
- 1 1/4 cups warm water
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
For Type 1: Herb and Cheese Bread:
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your choice)
- 1 tablespoon dried herbs (oregano, basil, or your choice)
For Type 2: Cinnamon Raisin Bread:
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
For Type 3: Olive and Rosemary Bread:
- 1/2 cup pitted and chopped olives (green or black)
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Activate the Yeast:
- In a bowl, combine warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the water, give it a gentle stir, and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. Make the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the activated yeast mixture, flour, and salt. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the Dough:
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Divide the Dough:
- Divide the dough into three equal portions.
For Type 1: Herb and Cheese Bread:
- To one portion, add the shredded cheese and dried herbs. Knead until well incorporated.
For Type 2: Cinnamon Raisin Bread:
- To another portion, add the raisins, ground cinnamon, and brown sugar. Knead until the ingredients are evenly distributed.
For Type 3: Olive and Rosemary Bread:
- To the last portion, add the chopped olives, fresh rosemary, and olive oil. Knead until everything is well mixed.
5. Shape and Bag:
- Place each flavored dough into separate quart-sized freezer bags. Seal the bags, leaving some room for the dough to expand.
6. First Rise:
- Allow the dough to rise in the bags for 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.
7. Preheat and Bake:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Carefully remove the risen dough from the bags and shape them into small loaves or rolls.
- Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped.
8. Cool and Enjoy:
- Allow your homemade deli-style bread to cool for a few minutes on a wire rack before slicing and savoring.
Tips:
- Feel free to get creative with your flavor combinations. Add nuts, seeds, or different herbs and spices to make each bread unique.
- You can make smaller rolls instead of loaves for a cute appetizer or snack option.
The best part about these freezer bag breads? They're incredibly versatile, and you can customize them to suit your taste. Whether you're into savory, sweet, or a delightful blend of both, there's bread here for you. So, why not give it a try and enjoy the simple pleasure of freshly baked bread straight from your own kitchen? Happy baking! 🍞🌿🧀🍇