Baking bread is a challenge, but some appliances can help with the kneading process.
Kneading the dough is a vital step in getting the texture of your bread just right, as it helps capture the bubbles and gases the yeast makes as the dough expands. While kneading dough is traditionally done by hand, bread machines allow you to enjoy your own fresh-baked bread, too. Most bread machines mix the ingredients, knead the dough and bake the bread for you; as an alternative, you may be able to knead the dough in an electric mixer or food processor if the package indicates the machine may be used in such a manner.
Instructions
1. Assemble your bread machine, or if you are using a mixer or processor, attach the dough hook. Do not use the regular blades or mixers.
2. Place a half cup of your mixed ingredients in the mixing bowl or machine and set it to the lowest speed. Allow the mixer to knead until the ingredients are well-mixed and then add another half cup. Continue until all of the dough is in the mixing bowl, machine or processor.
3. Turn up the speed one setting. Watch the kneading process. If the dough is sticking around the sides, add a sprinkle of flour. The dough should become smooth and shiny as the kneading continues. Add flour as necessary. The dough is finished when it is all in one clump and is easy to remove from the hook.
Tags: bowl machine, bread machines, knead dough, kneading process, mixing bowl, mixing bowl machine
