Country-sweetened breadPhoto byGin Lee

Country-sweetened bread

This recipe produces two loaves of incredibly delicious bread with a subtle hint of sweetness that elevates its flavor profile.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups of lukewarm water
• 1/4 cup of Splenda or white granulated sugar
• 2 1/4 teaspoons instant yeast
• 1 3/4 teaspoons of salt
• 2 tablespoons of butter, softened
• 4 cups of all-purpose flour
• 1/3 cup of powdered milk
• 2 to 3 tablespoons of melted butter

Instructions:

In a large mixing bowl, add 1 1/2 cups of lukewarm water, 1/4 cup of Splenda or white granulated sugar, 2 1/4 teaspoons instant yeast, 1 3/4 teaspoons of salt, 2 tablespoons of softened butter, 4 cups of all-purpose flour, and 1/3 cup of powdered milk. Mix thoroughly with a wooden spoon until the dough forms, then knead with your hands until smooth and pliable.

Place the dough on a lightly floured surface and continue kneading until smooth.

Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, cover it with a tea towel, and allow it to rest for 6 hours. Punch the dough down and divide it into two pieces. 

Grease two bread pans and place the dough in them. Allow the dough to rest for 60 to 90 minutes, or until it has doubled in size. Brush the tops of the bread with melted butter. Bake in a 375-degree oven for 20 to 30 minutes, or until done.

After a couple of minutes, take the loaves of bread out of the pan and place them on wire cooling racks. Allow your bread to cool completely before slicing it.

Enjoy the process of creating this delicious bread and savor every bite of the finished product!