This gluten-free bread recipe utilizes Cup4Cup flour, making it easy to achieve a delicious and fluffy loaf without gluten. Perfect for sandwiches or toast, this bread is a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.
The recipe is straightforward and requires minimal ingredients, allowing you to enjoy homemade gluten-free bread in no time.
Creating the Perfect Gluten-Free Loaf
Making gluten-free bread can often seem challenging, but with Cup4Cup flour, the process becomes much simpler. This blend is specifically formulated to mimic the texture and taste of traditional wheat flour, allowing for a delightful baking experience.
The key to achieving that perfect loaf lies in the balance of ingredients. The combination of warm water, olive oil, and apple cider vinegar works harmoniously with the flour to create a dough that is both pliable and easy to manage. This results in a bread that is not only gluten-free but also incredibly satisfying.
The Importance of Proper Rising
Rising is a crucial step in bread-making, especially for gluten-free recipes. The first rise allows the yeast to activate, creating air pockets that give the bread its light and fluffy texture.
After mixing the dough, place it in a warm environment to encourage rising. Covering the bowl with a kitchen towel helps retain warmth and moisture, ensuring the dough doubles in size. This step is vital for achieving a loaf that is airy and soft.
Shaping and Second Rise
Once the dough has risen, it’s time to shape it into a loaf. Gently punch down the dough to release excess air, then mold it into a loaf shape. This process is essential for creating a uniform texture throughout the bread.
The second rise is equally important. Allowing the shaped loaf to rise again for about 20-30 minutes helps to develop the final texture. This step ensures that the bread will have a nice dome and an appealing crust once baked.
Baking to Perfection
Preheating the oven is a step that should not be overlooked. A hot oven is crucial for a good rise and a beautifully browned crust. Baking at 375°F (190°C) allows the bread to cook evenly, ensuring that the inside is fluffy while the outside achieves that desirable golden-brown color.
Keep an eye on the baking time; typically, 30-35 minutes will suffice. The bread is done when it sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. This auditory cue is a reliable indicator of doneness.
Cooling and Serving Suggestions
After baking, patience is key. Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This cooling period helps set the texture and makes slicing easier.
Once cooled, the bread can be sliced and served. It’s perfect for sandwiches, toast, or simply enjoyed with a spread of butter. The light texture and delightful crust make it a versatile addition to any meal.
Storing Your Gluten-Free Bread
To maintain freshness, store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing slices. This way, you can enjoy a piece of freshly baked gluten-free bread whenever the craving strikes.
Whether you’re gluten-sensitive or simply looking to try something new, this gluten-free bread recipe with Cup4Cup flour is sure to impress. Enjoy the warm, inviting aroma that fills your kitchen as it bakes, and savor each bite of this delightful loaf.
Easy Gluten-Free Bread with Cup4Cup Flour
This gluten-free bread features a soft texture and a delightful crust, thanks to the unique blend of Cup4Cup flour. The recipe takes about 1 hour from start to finish and yields one loaf.
Ingredients
- 2 cups Cup4Cup gluten-free all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon instant yeast
- 1 cup warm water (110°F)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 large egg
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, combine the Cup4Cup flour, salt, sugar, and instant yeast. Mix well.
- Add Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the warm water, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and egg. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until a smooth dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 30 minutes or until doubled in size.
- Shape the Loaf: Punch down the risen dough and shape it into a loaf. Place it in a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- Second Rise: Cover the loaf with a towel and let it rise again for about 20-30 minutes.
- Preheat the Oven: While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake: Once the loaf has risen, bake it in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Cool: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Servings: 12 slices
- Calories: 120kcal
- Fat: 4g
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 18g