Freshly baked bread has a unique ability to evoke feelings of warmth and comfort. A new recipe from The Kitchn provides an easy way for home bakers to make their own soft and fluffy potato bread. Utilizing boxed instant mashed potatoes, this recipe ensures consistency and simplicity, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
The key to this potato bread’s allure lies in the moisture-retaining properties of its main ingredient, potatoes. When baked, this results in a loaf that is not only tender but also has a delightful springy texture. The use of instant mashed potato flakes offers a reliable way to incorporate this moisture without the variations that come with homemade mashed potatoes.
Why Potato Bread Stands Out
Many bakers might wonder why they should choose potato bread over traditional loaves. The answer is in its texture and longevity. The starches from the potatoes help keep the bread fresh for longer periods. This recipe calls for 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter and a single large egg, enriching the dough and enhancing the aroma while baking.
This method requires minimal effort, as a stand mixer handles much of the work. For beginners, this potato bread serves as an excellent starting point. The process is straightforward, and the resulting bread is suitable for toasting or making sandwiches.
Ingredients and Preparation Steps
The recipe yields one 8.5-inch loaf, serving up to 10 people. Here are the key ingredients:
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into pieces and at room temperature
– 3 cups bread flour, plus additional for dusting
– 1/2 cup instant mashed potato flakes
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon instant yeast
– 2 teaspoons kosher salt
– 1 cup water
– 1 large egg
The preparation involves whisking the dry ingredients together in a stand mixer, followed by the addition of water and egg. Mixing on low speed produces a smooth dough that can be easily handled.
After combining the butter, the dough is allowed to rise in a warm place until it becomes soft and puffy. Once ready, the dough is shaped and left to rise again in a prepared loaf pan. Preheating the oven to 350°F (approximately 180°C) is essential before baking, which should take around 45 minutes until a golden-brown crust forms.
Once baked, the loaf should cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely, which takes about 1 hour.
Storage Recommendations
To maintain freshness, homemade potato bread can be stored at room temperature for up to three days in a brown paper bag or bread bin. For longer storage, freezing is an excellent option. The bread can be kept in a zip-top bag in the freezer for up to a month. Pre-slicing the bread before freezing allows for convenient access to individual slices.
As a simple yet effective recipe, this potato bread from The Kitchn is an ideal choice for anyone looking to enjoy the comforting experience of homemade bread. With its easy preparation and delightful flavor, it invites both seasoned bakers and novices to create a warm loaf at home.
For further insights, readers can refer to contributors such as Shilpa Uskokovic and Jan Valdez, who have helped craft this engaging recipe for The Kitchn.
