Things You'll Need
Bread machine
Water
Bread mix (including yeast packet)
A bread mix simplifies the bread-making process even more when used with a bread machine. The variety of bread mixes available – both homemade and store-bought – provide convenience to the modern kitchen as well. After mastering the basic principles of using a bread mix with the bread machine, experiment with incorporating additional ingredients or different settings. A basic white bread mix, prepared in the bread machine and finished in a traditional oven, can be transformed into pizza, focaccia or cinnamon rolls.
Step 1
Remove the bread pan from the bread machine. Insert the kneading paddle into the bread pan according to the manufacturer's instructions.
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Step 2
Add the ingredients to the bread pan in the following order: water, bread mix and yeast packet. If not using all of the mix at one time, measure the ingredients carefully.
Step 3
Insert the bread pan into the bread machine. Close the lid and choose the appropriate bread setting. If not specified, and there is less than 50% whole wheat flour included in the mix, choose the "Basic" setting.
Step 4
Press the "Crust Color" button and select the desired crust option.
Step 5
Press the "Start/Stop" button to begin the cycle. Check the dough after 10 minutes of kneading. Add additional water, flour or mix to make a smooth dough ball.
Step 6
(Optional) Lift the lid and sprinkle a small amount of additional ingredients, if you choose to add them, when the machine sounds a series of short beeps during the kneading process. Continue until all are incorporated into the dough. Chopped herbs or dried fruits; shredded cheese or small chocolate pieces are some additional options.
Step 7
Remove the hot bread pan, carefully with pot holders, once the entire cycle has been completed. Allow the bread to cool in the bread pan for 10 minutes. Remove the bread from the pan and continue to cool completely, on a wire rack, before slicing.
Tip
For best results, do not allow the yeast to come in contact with the liquid ingredients prior to the kneading cycle.
Remove the kneading paddle after the last kneading cycle. This will keep the baked bread from having a large whole in the center.
To keep the bread from over baking, remove the bread pan from the bread machine once the bread has finished baking.
Warning
Always operate the bread machine in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
To avoid being burned, never place your face near the opening of the lid during or after the baking cycle.
Always exercise caution when removing the hot bread pan from the bread machine.
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