Before you start, think about these three points, and consider plugging in some help. A KitchenAid Stand Mixer and the Bread Bowl might just come in handy.
Which ingredients do you need? And do you have enough of them in your food cupboard?
How much time do you have?
Which tools might help things along?
Benefit using mixers to do bread dough
Kneading bread by hand is a beautiful tradition, but using a stand mixer is so convenient. If you’re on a tight schedule, it’s much easier and quicker. And that’s not the only perk.
Save time - If you use your stand mixer, you can multitask. While it does the heavy lifting – mixing and kneading – you can prep your next move. This way, you’ll always be one step ahead.
Get consistent results - Your stand mixer has one job: to mix and knead dough quickly, thoroughly, and evenly. This leads to a more consistent texture and rise each time you’re making your favourite bread.
Whip up big batches in no time - Whether it’s to restock your freezer or cater for a big brunch, baking breads in bigger batches can be physically and logistically challenging. A stand mixer, especially a larger one like the KitchenAid bowl-lift mixer, offers a helping hand.
Get your KitchenAid mixer for your baking journey
There are a variety of mixers you can choose from the KitchenAid website, with different capacities and more than 20 color options. Explore possibilities beyond kneading bread dough.
Three essential steps in baking breads
Making bread comes down to these three steps: mixing and kneading, proofing, and baking. It might sound like you need a fully equipped kitchen, but you don’t. You just need the right tools. With the KitchenAid Bread Bowl, you can use one and the same bowl, from mixer to oven. Here’s how:
Mixing and kneading - Use the Bread Bowl just like a regular mixing bowl. Put it on your stand mixer – it pairs with all KitchenAid 4.3, 4.7 and 4.8L Stand Mixers – and add all the ingredients. Attach the dough hook, switch on your mixer, and let it do all the kneading for you.
Proofing - Afterwards, leave the dough in the Bread Bowl to proof. The temperature and humidity inside the bowl are stable, making it the perfect place for your dough to rise. No Bread Bowl at hand? Cover it with a clean tea towel or plastic wrap, and put it somewhere warm and draught-free. For example, a turned-off oven with the interior light on, or near a sunny window.
Baking - Has your dough finished rising? Shape it, place it on the lid, and cover it with the Bread Bowl. Then, pop it straight into the oven. The Bread Bowl will retain and distribute the heat evenly. The result? A thoroughly baked bread with a crispy golden crust. If you don’t have a Bread Bowl just yet, use a preheated Dutch oven instead. The effects are similar.
Seven classic breads to make and bake
Now that you have the theory down, it’s time to put on your apron. Savoury, sweet or specialty – take your pick, and start baking.
Basics breads
01. Everyday bread
Master the basics first by sinking your teeth into this artisan bread. Airy on the inside, crispy on the outside. That’s the goal. It might take some practice, but when you find that perfect balance, you’ll feel like a certified master baker.
02. Sourdough bread with yeast
Its look? More rustic. Its crust? Slightly thicker. Its rise time? 12 hours. Yes, this sourdough bread calls for a bit more patience, but it’s worth the wait. One taste of that quintessential complex, tangy flavour is all the reward you’ll need.
03. Rye bread with raisins and hazelnut
If rye flour doesn’t have a place in your pantry yet, this is your cue. It makes for a chewier crust and a denser crumb, making the bread more fulfilling. So, if you like your sandwiches hearty and wholesome, try this rustic one. Its earthy flavour is divine. Not a big fan of raisins? You can always opt it out.
04. Gluten-free bread
Living the gluten-free life? This delicious loaf will fit right in. The intricate mix of different flours, binders, and leavening agents requires extra focus and a pinch of courage. But if you’re up for a baking challenge, it’s a must-try.
Sweet breads
05. Dried fruit bread
Feeling inspired? Dried fruits are a great way to liven things up. From raisins and dates to prunes and figs, pick out your favourites and knead them into the dough. Pair it with cheese, sit back, and enjoy this beautiful, sweet and savoury combo.
06. Cinnamon roll bread
A cinnamon roll, but bigger and fluffier, and with buttercream icing on top. If the giant swirl doesn’t win your guests over, the sweet yet spicy scent of freshly-baked cinnamon rolls will.
07. Pain au lait
The French have a way with bread. These sweet, buttery milk buns are so fluffy they melt in your mouth. Go ahead, pull out your Bread Bowl, it’s fit for more than just baking loaves.
Five speciality breads with a one-of-a-kind taste
From beetroot to banana bread, to brioche and naan, there’s more to bake than just the classics. And your stand mixer can definitely lend you a hand.
Buttery. A hint of sweetness, and a pillowy soft texture. Your brunch guests will love savouring this French classic, and you’ll love baking it. Why? It’s a standard dough – there’s nothing tricky about it – but braid it, and it turns into a showstopper.
They’re pink, tender, and almost too cute to eat. The best part? You only need five ingredients and 35 minutes to make these gorgeous mini breads.
It might have started as a hype, but banana bread is here to stay. And rightfully so. It’s sweet, but not too sweet, heart-warmingly moist, and easy to whip up. Add chocolate chips, pop it in the oven and once cooled, it’ll be the hit of your Sunday breakfast.
The best thing about making focaccia? You can get creative with it. Top it with fresh herbs, olives, tomatoes, or just about any cheese. And in this case: garlic and parmesan.
Naan might be a staple in Indian cuisine, but there’s nothing basic about it. With yoghurt, minced garlic, and anise seeds on the ingredients list, the flavour of these South Asian flatbreads is quite nuanced. Bake them in your cast iron frying pan and pair them up with a curry, stew or dip.
Whether you’re a seasoned dough-puncher or a rookie baker, each bread recipe comes with new, exciting challenges. But with a KitchenAid Stand Mixer and Bread Bowl by your side, you’re all set to tackle every single one of them.
