Step 1: Proof the Yeast
- Warm the Water: Heat the water until it’s just warm to the touch (110°F/45°C).
- Combine Sugar and Yeast: Add the sugar and yeast to the warm water and stir gently. Let the mixture sit for 5–10 minutes until it becomes frothy and bubbly. This means the yeast is active and ready to help the dough rise.
Step 2: Blend the Dough
- Add Ingredients to Blender: In your blender, add vegetable oil, salt, egg, and the proofed yeast mixture. Blend on low speed until the ingredients are just combined.
- Add the Flour Gradually: Add half of the flour (about 1 1/4 cups) to the blender and blend on medium speed until the flour is mixed in smoothly. Then add the remaining flour and blend until a sticky dough forms. If the dough is too thick for the blender to handle, transfer it to a mixing bowl for further mixing.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
- Transfer and Knead: Transfer the dough from the blender to a lightly floured surface. Knead by hand for about 5 minutes until it becomes soft, smooth, and elastic. If it’s too sticky, sprinkle a bit more flour, but avoid adding too much, as this can make the bread dense.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a greased mixing bowl and cover it with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm, draft-free area for 1 to 1 1/2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
Step 4: Shape the Dough
- Punch Down the Dough: Gently punch down the dough to release excess air.
- Shape and Place in Pan: Shape the dough into a log and place it into a greased loaf pan, spreading it out evenly.
Step 5: Second Rise
- Cover and Let Rise Again: Cover the pan loosely with plastic wrap or a towel and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until it has risen slightly above the edges of the pan.
Step 6: Bake the Bread
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake: Remove the cover and bake the bread for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. If the top starts browning too quickly, cover it loosely with foil for the remainder of the bake.
Step 7: Cool and Slice
- Cool the Bread: Remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Slice and Serve: Slice the bread with a serrated knife, and enjoy it fresh! This bread is fantastic plain, buttered, or toasted.
Tips for Success
- Use Warm Water: Too hot or too cold water can inhibit yeast activation. Aim for 110°F (45°C).
- Let the Dough Rise in a Warm Place: Ideal rising spots include inside a turned-off oven with the light on or on top of a warm appliance.
- Avoid Overmixing: Over-blending can make the dough too tough. Keep the blending light, and rely on hand-kneading for an airy texture.
Serving Suggestions
This fluffy bread is great for:
- Sandwiches: Soft, fluffy slices hold up well with fillings.
- Toast: Perfect with butter, jam, or honey.
- French Toast: Use slightly stale bread for a luxurious breakfast treat.
Conclusion
Making Fluffy Homemade Bread in a Blender is an easy and rewarding way to enjoy homemade bread without all the fuss. This recipe will give you a soft, delicious loaf with minimal effort. Enjoy the comfort of freshly baked bread, and don’t forget to savor each slice!