Quick and Crunchy Bread

by

Introduction:
Quick and Crunchy Bread is a no-fuss recipe perfect for when you’re craving fresh, homemade bread with a delightful crunch. This simple, easy-to-make bread has a golden crust and a soft, airy interior, making it ideal for sandwiches, dipping, or enjoying with butter and jam. With minimal ingredients and no need for extended kneading or rising times, it’s a perfect go-to bread recipe for any meal!

Ingredients:

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 ½ cups buttermilk (or regular milk with 1 tablespoon vinegar or lemon juice)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
  • ¼ cup rolled oats or seeds (optional, for extra crunch)
  • 1 tablespoon coarse sea salt (for topping, optional)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat Oven:
  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan.
  1. Mix Dry Ingredients:
  • In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
  1. Add Wet Ingredients:
  • Pour in the buttermilk and olive oil (or melted butter). Stir until the dough just comes together. Do not overmix; it’s okay if the dough is slightly sticky.
  1. Shape the Dough:
  • Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and gently shape it into a round or an oval loaf. For extra crunch, sprinkle rolled oats or seeds on top and press them lightly into the dough.
  1. Bake:
  • Transfer the dough to the prepared baking sheet or loaf pan. Sprinkle the top with coarse sea salt if desired. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
  1. Cool:
  • Remove from the oven and allow the bread to cool on a wire rack for 10-15 minutes before slicing.

Tips for Success:

  • Buttermilk substitute: If you don’t have buttermilk, simply add 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to regular milk and let it sit for 5 minutes.
  • Customize the crunch: Add sunflower seeds, sesame seeds, or even chopped nuts for extra crunch and flavor.
  • Crispier crust: For an extra crispy crust, place a small dish of water in the oven while baking.

Recommendation:

Serve this Quick and Crunchy Bread warm with butter, honey, or your favorite spread. It’s a great companion for soups, salads, or a side to any meal, and it’s also fantastic as a base for sandwiches!

Leave a Comment