Buttery, Nutty, and Iron-rich: King Arthur Buttermilk Bread

For those seeking a delicious and satisfying bread recipe that takes minimal effort, look no further than King Arthur Buttermilk Bread. This bread is a chewy and flavourful blend of buttermilk and honey, providing a rich but mild taste. The nutty undertones of toasted walnuts creates a satisfying texture and the iron-rich quality provides essential vitamins and minerals for a nourishing meal.

To begin, you will need the following ingredients to make two loaves:

Ingredients:

  • 2 3/4 cups (355g) King Arthur Unbleached All-Purpose Flour
  • 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons instant or active dry yeast
  • 1 1/4 teaspoons salt
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 cup (227g) buttermilk
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 cup (96g) lightly toasted chopped walnuts

Method:

  • Combine the flour, sugar, yeast, and salt in a large bowl.
  • Mix together the melted butter, buttermilk, and honey.
  • Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until everything is evenly combined, then add the walnuts.
  • Knead the dough, either by hand for 10 minutes or with a stand mixer using the dough hook for 5 minutes, until the dough is smooth and pliable.
  • Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl and cover with plastic wrap. Let it rise until it’s almost doubled in size, about 1 to 1 1/2 hours.
  • Divide the dough in half and shape each half into a loaf. Place each loaf into a lightly greased 8.5″ x 4.5″loaf pan.
  • Let the loaves rise, uncovered, for about 1 hour, until they’re not quite doubled in size.
  • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Bake the loaves for 25 to 30 minutes, until they’re golden brown and an instant-read thermometer inserted into the center registers 190°F (88°C).
  • Remove the loaves from the oven and cool on a rack.

King Arthur Buttermilk Bread is a delicious and hearty loaf that is sure to be a hit with family and friends. The simple ingredients and easy instructions make it a no-fuss recipe for even the most beginner bakers. The texture of the bread is both soft and chewy due to the nutty walnuts and the mild buttermilk flavour gives a slight sweetness to the dense and appetizing loaf.

Similar recipes can be found in traditional English, Irish and Scottish cuisines because these countries have a history of buttermilk being used so extensively in baking. So, why not try your hand at baking this delicious and unique bread at home? Everyone is sure to enjoy it!