Crockpot Bread Recipe

Crockpot Bread Recipe

Making bread in a crockpot is a simple and convenient way to enjoy homemade, fresh bread without needing to heat up the oven. Here’s a basic crockpot bread recipe that produces a soft and delicious loaf.

Ingredients:

• 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/2 cups warm water (about 110°F/45°C)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
• 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for sweetness)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the yeast mixture:
   In a small bowl, combine the warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the water and stir. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, until the yeast becomes foamy and bubbly.
2. Mix the dough:
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Once the yeast mixture is ready, pour it into the bowl with the flour, along with the olive oil (or melted butter) and honey (if using). Stir until a dough forms. You can use a spoon or your hands to mix.
3. Knead the dough:
   Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 5-8 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough feels too sticky, you can add a little more flour, but be careful not to add too much.
4. First rise:
   Grease the inside of your crockpot with a little oil or non-stick spray. Place the dough in the crockpot, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise for 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
5. Shape the dough:
   After the dough has risen, punch it down and shape it into a ball or loaf shape, depending on your crockpot size. Place it back in the crockpot. For a softer crust, cover the dough with a paper towel before placing the lid on the crockpot (this helps absorb moisture).
6. Cook the bread:
   Set your crockpot to low and cook for 2-3 hours. Check the bread after about 2 hours by gently tapping the top – it should sound hollow when done. The bread should also be golden brown on top.
7. Optional – Crisp the crust:
   If you prefer a crispier crust, remove the bread from the crockpot and place it on a baking sheet. Pop it under a broiler for 2-3 minutes until the crust is golden and crisp.
8. Cool and serve:
   Let the bread cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before slicing. Serve it warm with butter or your favorite spread!

This crockpot bread recipe is easy, delicious, and perfect for those who don’t want to fuss with an oven. Enjoy!