Crockpot Bread Recipe

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Crockpot Bread Recipe

Ingredients:

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
  • 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 1/2 cups warm water (about 110°F, warm to the touch but not hot)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Optional toppings: Dried herbs (like rosemary or thyme), seeds (such as sesame or poppy), or shredded cheese

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, yeast, and salt. Mix thoroughly to evenly distribute the dry ingredients.
  2. Gradually add the warm water and olive oil while stirring with a wooden spoon or spatula. Mix until the dough starts to come together into a sticky mass.

2. Knead the Dough

  1. Lightly flour a clean surface and transfer the dough onto it.
  2. Begin kneading by pushing the dough away from you with the heel of your hand, then folding it back over itself. Turn it slightly and repeat.
  3. Continue kneading for about 5-7 minutes until the dough becomes smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky to the touch. If the dough sticks too much, sprinkle a little more flour as needed.

3. Let the Dough Rise

  1. Lightly grease the mixing bowl with a small amount of olive oil to prevent sticking. Place the kneaded dough in the bowl and turn it a few times to coat it with oil.
  2. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and place it in a warm, draft-free area.
  3. Allow the dough to rise for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size. To check, press your finger lightly into the dough—if the indentation remains, it’s ready.

4. Prepare the Slow Cooker

  1. Grease the inside of your slow cooker generously with olive oil or nonstick spray. Alternatively, you can line the slow cooker with parchment paper for easier cleanup.
  2. Punch down the risen dough to release any air bubbles and shape it into a loaf or round ball, depending on your preference.
  3. Place the shaped dough into the greased slow cooker. If desired, sprinkle your chosen toppings, such as herbs, seeds, or cheese, on the surface of the dough.

5. Cook the Bread

  1. Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to high heat. Avoid lifting the lid during the cooking process, as this can release heat and affect the cooking time.
  2. Cook for 2-3 hours. Begin checking around the 2-hour mark by gently tapping the bottom of the loaf—if it sounds hollow, the bread is ready.
  3. For a more golden crust, you can remove the bread from the slow cooker and place it under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.

6. Cool and Serve

  1. Once the bread is cooked, carefully lift it out of the slow cooker using oven mitts or tongs. Place it on a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. This allows the interior to finish setting and prevents it from becoming gummy.
  2. Slice and serve with butter, jam, or as an accompaniment to soups, salads, or pasta dishes.

Pro Tips for Success:

  • Water Temperature: Ensure the water is warm but not too hot (110°F is ideal). Hot water can kill the yeast, while cold water may slow activation.
  • Rising Time: If your kitchen is cold, place the bowl in a slightly warm oven (turned off) or near a sunny window to help the dough rise.
  • Customization: Add mix-ins like shredded cheese, minced garlic, or chopped herbs directly into the dough for extra flavor.

Enjoy the satisfaction of making fresh, homemade bread with minimal effort—perfect for busy days or cozy weekends!

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