Delicious Yeast Vegan Bread Recipe

Introduction

Welcome to the ultimate guide for making Delicious Yeast Vegan Bread—a recipe that transforms simple ingredients into a hearty, flavorful loaf perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner looking to explore the world of vegan baking, this detailed recipe will walk you through each step with precision and care. Featuring a soft, airy crumb and a golden crust, this vegan bread is versatile enough to be used for sandwiches, toast, or simply enjoyed fresh out of the oven.

Ingredients

For the Bread Dough:

  • 3½ cups all-purpose flour (or bread flour for a chewier texture)
  • 1 packet (¼ ounce) active dry yeast (or 2¼ teaspoons)
  • 1½ cups warm water (110°F or 45°C)
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (or coconut sugar for a lower glycemic index)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (or any neutral oil)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (for added fluffiness)

Optional Add-ins:

  • ¼ cup chia seeds, flax seeds, or sunflower seeds (for added nutrition and texture)
  • ¼ cup dried herbs (such as rosemary, thyme, or oregano) for a flavorful twist
  • ¼ cup vegan cheese shreds (optional, for a cheesy flavor)

Instructions

Preparing the Dough

  1. Proof the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water and granulated sugar. Stir until the sugar is dissolved. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the surface of the water. Allow it to sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy and bubbly, indicating that the yeast is activated.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt. If you are adding seeds or herbs, incorporate them into the flour mixture at this stage.
  3. Combine Wet Ingredients: Make a well in the center of the flour mixture. Pour in the activated yeast mixture, olive oil, and apple cider vinegar.
  4. Form the Dough: Using a wooden spoon or your hands, mix the ingredients together until a rough dough forms. The dough will be sticky, which is normal for bread dough.
  5. Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. You can also use a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook for this step, kneading on medium speed for 5-7 minutes.

First Rise

  1. Prepare the Rising Bowl: Lightly grease a large bowl with olive oil. Place the dough in the bowl, turning it once to coat the entire surface with oil.
  2. Cover and Rise: Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Place the bowl in a warm, draft-free area to rise for 1-1½ hours, or until the dough has doubled in size.

Shaping the Loaf

  1. Punch Down the Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release any air bubbles. This step is crucial for achieving a consistent texture in the final loaf.
  2. Shape the Loaf: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Shape it into a loaf by folding the edges inward and rolling it up tightly. Alternatively, you can shape it into a round or oval loaf depending on your preference.
  3. Prepare the Pan: Lightly grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with oil or line it with parchment paper.
  4. Place in Pan: Transfer the shaped dough into the prepared loaf pan. Cover it with a towel and let it rise again for 30-45 minutes, or until it has risen slightly above the edges of the pan.

Baking

  1. Preheat Oven: While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Bake the Bread: Once the dough has completed its second rise, place the loaf pan in the preheated oven. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
  3. Check for Doneness: For a more accurate check, use a food thermometer. The internal temperature of the bread should be around 190°F (88°C) when fully baked.

Cooling and Serving

  1. Cool the Bread: Remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This step helps to prevent the crust from becoming soggy.
  2. Slice and Serve: Once cooled, slice the bread using a serrated bread knife. Enjoy it fresh, or store it for later use.

Nutritional Information

Per Serving (Approx. 1 slice, assuming 12 slices per loaf):

  • Calories: 130 kcal
  • Total Fat: 3g
  • Saturated Fat: 0.5g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg
  • Sodium: 220mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 23g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 3g
  • Protein: 4g

Weight Watchers SmartPoints

  • Freestyle Points: 3
  • PointsPlus: 4
  • SmartPoints: 3

Tips and Variations

  • Flavor Enhancements: Experiment with adding garlic powder, onion powder, or other spices to the dough for a savory twist. You can also incorporate nuts, seeds, or dried fruit for added texture and flavor.
  • Gluten-Free Option: For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend and add a teaspoon of xanthan gum to help with structure. Note that gluten-free bread may have a different texture and density.
  • Storage: Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, slice and freeze the bread, then toast slices as needed.
  • Bread Machine: If you have a bread machine, you can use it for this recipe. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the order of ingredients and use the whole wheat or basic bread setting.
  • Make Ahead: Prepare the dough in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. This can help develop a more complex flavor.

Conclusion

This Delicious Yeast Vegan Bread recipe offers a wholesome, satisfying alternative to store-bought bread. With a soft, airy crumb and a delightful crust, it’s perfect for sandwiches, toast, or enjoying with a pat of vegan butter. This bread is not only vegan but also easy to make, with detailed steps to ensure perfect results every time. Whether you’re a baking novice or an experienced bread maker, this recipe will guide you through the process of creating a delectable loaf that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy the process, and happy baking!