photo: d90joe

Are you new to bread baking? According to the History Channel, bread baking has been around for 30,000 years, but for many of us it is new. When you are new to bread baking, it is very easy to get overwhelmed, but don’t give up! Bread baking is actually easier than it seems.

In honor of our classic loaf pan being introduced in a variety of colors, I have decided to do a little bread baking lesson here to those of us who are new, let’s call it Superstone® Bread Baking 101.

Introducing Our Classic Loaf Pan In An Array Of Colors

Many of us begin our love of baking thanks to sweet treats like cakes and pies and cookies, but making bread has a unique approach that is quite different than we are used to. That’s because bread is alive. The process of combining the flour with yeast, water and salt and the time it takes to do it creates fermentation.

Fermentation is the process of yeast reacting with the ingredients to create carbon dioxide and in turn the delicious airy texture in bread.

What do I need in order to bake bread?

My favorite things about baking homemade bread are the delicious taste and how budget friendly it is. Seriously, I would be willing to bet that you have the ingredients on hand to make bread and the equipment needed is minimal. If you don’t already have the tools you need, here is a little run down for you.

What tools do I need to bake delicious bread?

• Superstone® Loaf Pans - Our classic loaf pans are great for bread baking and they come in a variety of vibrant colors, get one or get them all! 
• Bread Whisk
• Bread Lame
• Mixing Bowls
• Measuring Cups and Spoons
• Dough Scraper

With these tools on hand you are ready to be an expert bread baker.

What ingredients do I need to bake delicious bread?

The following ingredients are must haves for delicious homemade bread.

Yeast

There are several different types of yeast that you can use in your bread baking adventures.

Active Dry: You can typically find active dry yeast in the dairy section and it will come in small packages. In order to “wake” this yeast up, you need to put in warm water for a few minutes before use. (Store in a cool, dry spot and watch the expiration dates.

Rapid Rise: Rapid rise yeast is not actually much more “rapid” than any other yeast, but you don’t need to add it to water so many people prefer it since they get to skip a step.

Fresh Yeast: This form of yeast is used mainly in professional bakeries. It’s hard to find and you have to use it quickly, so it’s best to leave this yeast to the professionals.

Starter: I’m sure you have seen lots of sourdough starters crossing your social media timelines lately (or is it just my friends that are obsessed right now?). This is a mixture of water, flour and sugar that gives sourdough it’s recognizable sour flavor. This one takes much more time, but for some it is well worth it.

Flour

There are several different types of flour that you can use when baking bread. Here is a little run down of them and the differences they will make in your bread.

All-Purpose - All purpose flour is the flour you are used to working with. Be sure and choose the unbleached variety.

Bread Flour - Bread flour is made specifically for bread and has over 10% protein. Again, be sure to choose the unbleached variety.

Gluten Free - In my household, gluten free is a big thing. We have 5 people in my family and two of us are unable to consume gluten. The new gluten free flours that are available are amazing! It’s not the gluten free flour of the past.

Salt

Use EXACTLY what the recipe calls for when it comes to salt. Kosher salt and table salt are different, the weight is different, the texture is different. I cannot stress this enough. Be sure to use the correct type.

Water

Bread baking often calls for room temperature water and many recipes specifically call for spring water (tap water can have minerals that have a negative effect on your bread baking process). For these reasons, I like to keep several gallons of spring water in my pantry.

Other Ingredients

Depending on your chosen recipe, you may also need ingredients such as butter, cheese, milk, eggs, fruit, etc. I suggest checking out your recipe well in advance of baking so that you have time to go to the grocery store if you need to.

Time

Okay, while not exactly an “ingredient,” time should absolutely be added into the list of things you need while making bread. The best bread requires that you put the right amount of time into it for the most success.

Good luck on all of your bread baking adventures, my friends! I just know that you are going to make something amazing.