Old English Bloomer. Crusty Bread at its Very Best

strong white bread flour

🥗Healthier: whole wheat flour

💰Cheaper: all-purpose flour

Whole wheat flour adds fiber and nutrients, while all-purpose flour is more accessible.

butter

🥗Healthier: olive oil

💰Cheaper: margarine

Olive oil provides healthy fats, while margarine is often less expensive.

milk

🥗Healthier: almond milk

💰Cheaper: water

Almond milk reduces calories and is dairy-free, while water is cost-effective.

sugar

🥗Healthier: honey

💰Cheaper: brown sugar

Honey is a natural sweetener, while brown sugar is often cheaper.

Add sugar to warm water and mix until dissolved.

Add yeast to the water and mix, then set aside for 10 minutes until activated.

Add the activated yeast mixture to a stand mixer bowl.

Add softened butter, strong white bread flour, and salt to the bowl.

Attach the dough hook and mix until combined, kneading for 10 minutes.

Grease a medium-sized bowl with oil and set aside.

Form the dough into a ball and place it in the greased bowl, cover with a shower cap, and let it proof in a warm spot for 1 hour.

After proofing, knock back the dough and shape it into a flat square, then roll it into an oval shape.

Place the shaped dough on a baking tray and sprinkle with flour, cover with a lightweight cloth, and let it proof for 45 minutes.

Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F) with a pan of hot water on the bottom shelf.

Score the dough with a lame or baker's blade, making five evenly spaced cuts.

Spray the oven with water before placing the dough inside.

Bake for 30 minutes, or longer for a darker crust.

Let the bread cool on a wire rack before slicing.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary

Allergens