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Instructions for a Bread Making Machine
by Otehlia Cassidy
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Overview
If you like the taste of fresh-made bread, but don't have the time or desire to make it by hand, a bread machine is a convenient alternative. Bread machines are easy to use and versatile; you can make dough for pizza, or bake a crusty loaf of bread. If your bread machine is missing instructions, don't let that stop you from using it. The basic mechanics and instructions for most bread machines are the same.
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Getting to Know Your Machine
Take a look at the buttons on the bread machine's display. You can press the buttons to figure out what they do without worrying about damaging the machine. To reset the machine, simply unplug it. Most machines have a "select" button that allows you to choose the type of bread or dough that you are going to make. Some machines also have arrows that allow you to delay the start of the bread cycle. For example, if a loaf of bread takes 3 hours and 30 minutes to bake, and you want it done at 5 p.m., start the bread machine at 1:30 p.m. What if it is 9:30 a.m., and you are going to be gone for the day? Put your ingredients in the machine, select the bread cycle, and instead of pressing start, press the up arrow until it reads 7 hours and 30 minutes. The bread machine will start four hours from the time you set the machine, or at 1:30 p.m.
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Ingredients and Method
After you have figured out the machine's settings, you are ready to make a loaf. Determine the capacity of the bread pan by measuring the amount of liquid the pan holds. If it holds 10 cups of liquid, the machine will make 1 or 1 1/2 lb. loaves. If the pan holds 12 cups of liquid, you can make up to 2 lb. loaves of bread.
The type of ingredients you use will ensure a delicious finished product. It is best to use bread flour. Bread flour contains a higher amount of gluten than all-purpose flour, yielding a smoother and more elastic loaf. If you want to make wheat bread, try substituting a third of the white flour for wheat flour for the best consistency. Bread machines work best with active-dry yeast, not rapid-rise yeast. Be sure to add the salt, the milk powder (if called for), and the oil. Consider adding additional grains or fruits, about ½ cup per loaf. Try flax seed, sunflower seeds or a handful of raisins and cranberries.
If you are delaying the start of your loaf, the order of ingredients is very important. Put the liquid in first, followed by the flour, which will seal in the water. Place the dry ingredients on top, followed by the yeast. You do not want the water and yeast to mix before the bread machine has started the cycle. If you are making the bread right away, add the ingredients in any order.
Bring the ingredients to room temperature, except the water, which should be warm, but not hot. Enjoy the homemade taste of bread without all the work.
