This easy recipe for pita bread uses a bread machine to simplify the process. The result is soft, fluffy pita bread that can be used for sandwiches, dips, or as a side for your favorite dishes.
With just a few basic ingredients, you can enjoy freshly baked pita bread right from your kitchen.
Creating the Perfect Pita Bread
Making pita bread at home can be a rewarding experience. The aroma of freshly baked bread fills your kitchen, creating an inviting atmosphere.
With the right technique, you can achieve that ideal fluffy texture and perfect pocket that makes pita bread so versatile.
Using a bread machine simplifies the process, allowing you to focus on the joy of baking.
Ingredients for Homemade Pita Bread
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity.
You only need a handful of ingredients: warm water, olive oil, bread flour, salt, sugar, and active dry yeast.
These basic components come together to create a dough that puffs up beautifully in the oven, resulting in soft, pocket-style bread.
The Dough-Making Process
Start by adding the warm water and olive oil to your bread machine.
Next, layer the bread flour, salt, sugar, and yeast in the pan.
This order is essential for the yeast to activate properly, ensuring a good rise.
Once everything is in place, select the dough cycle on your machine.
This cycle will mix, knead, and allow the dough to rise, taking approximately 1.5 hours.
After this, you’ll be ready to shape your pitas!
Shaping and Baking the Pitas
After the dough has risen, it’s time to punch it down and divide it into equal pieces.
Roll each piece into a ball and then flatten it into a circle about 1/4 inch thick.
This step is crucial for achieving the perfect puff during baking.
Preheat your oven to a high temperature, around 475°F (245°C), and place a baking stone or sheet inside to heat up.
Carefully transfer the flattened dough onto the hot surface and watch as they puff up in just 5-7 minutes.
Serving Suggestions
Once baked, let the pitas cool on a wire rack.
They can be served warm or stored in an airtight container for later use.
These pitas are perfect for sandwiches, dips, or paired with fresh vegetables and hummus for a healthy snack.
Nutrition and Enjoyment
Each serving of pita bread contains around 150 calories, making it a light yet satisfying option.
With 4 grams of protein and 3 grams of fat, it fits well into a balanced diet.
Enjoy the process of making your own pita bread and savor the delightful taste of homemade goodness!
Simple Bread Machine Pita Bread Recipe
This pita bread recipe yields soft, pocket-style bread that puffs up beautifully when baked. The entire process takes about 2 hours, including mixing, rising, and baking, and it makes approximately 8 pitas.
Ingredients
- 1 cup warm water (110°F to 115°F)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cups bread flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
Instructions
- Add Ingredients to Bread Machine: Pour the warm water and olive oil into the bread machine pan. Add the bread flour, salt, sugar, and yeast in that order.
- Select the Dough Cycle: Close the lid and select the dough cycle on your bread machine. Start the machine and let it run through the cycle.
- Preheat Oven: Once the dough cycle is complete, preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). Place a baking stone or baking sheet in the oven to heat.
- Shape the Pitas: Punch down the dough and divide it into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and then flatten it into a circle about 1/4 inch thick.
- Bake the Pitas: Carefully place the flattened dough onto the preheated baking stone or sheet. Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until the pitas puff up and are lightly golden.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the pitas from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. Serve warm or store in an airtight container.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours
- Servings: 8 pitas
- Calories: 150kcal
- Fat: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 28g