Gluten-free bread has become increasingly popular in recent years, largely due to the growing awareness of gluten sensitivities and celiac disease. Beyond accommodating dietary restrictions, this tasty and easy gluten-free bread recipe is perfect for those who simply want to diversify their homemade bread options. With the help of a bread maker, you can easily prepare this fresh and flavorful bread with minimal fuss.
Ingredients
For this gluten-free bread maker magic recipe, gather the following ingredients:
- 3 cups gluten-free flour blend (choose one that contains xanthan gum or add 1 1/2 teaspoons if it doesn’t)
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F/45°C)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your delicious gluten-free bread:
- In a small bowl, dissolve the sugar in the warm water. Add the active dry yeast and let it sit for 5-10 minutes, or until it becomes frothy. This will ensure that the yeast is activated and ready to help the bread rise.
- In a separate larger bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour blend and salt.
- In another small bowl, mix together the olive oil, eggs, and apple cider vinegar.
- Once the yeast mixture is frothy, pour it into the bowl with the flour mixture. Add the egg mixture as well, and mix until fully combined.
- Transfer the dough to the bread maker’s baking pan. Use a spatula to spread the dough evenly across the pan. Follow your bread maker’s instructions for gluten-free bread settings.
- When the bread is finished baking, carefully remove it from the bread maker and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving. Enjoy your fresh, homemade gluten-free bread!
History and Curiosities
Records of gluten-free recipes date back thousands of years, but it wasn’t until the 1940s when Dutch pediatrician Dr. Willem Karel Dicke discovered the link between celiac disease and gluten. Since then, the demand for gluten-free products has skyrocketed, leading to innovations in gluten-free cooking techniques and ingredients.
The use of a bread maker to simplify the gluten-free bread-making process is a relatively recent development. Bread makers became popular in the late 20th century, and their versatility made them an attractive option for those who wanted to enjoy the freshness of homemade bread without the hassle of traditional baking methods.
One curiosity about gluten-free bread is the necessity of xanthan gum, which serves as a replacement for the gluten. Xanthan gum helps to provide structure and elasticity to the dough, creating a texture more reminiscent of traditional wheat-based bread.
In many cultures, bread is an essential part of daily meals, and its history is deeply intertwined with the history of human civilization. By creating a gluten-free bread recipe that closely mimics the taste and texture of traditional bread, we can maintain this important culinary staple while accommodating the dietary needs of individuals with gluten sensitivities or preferences. So, enjoy a slice of this gluten-free bread maker magic and revel in the knowledge that you are participating in a rich, global tradition that transcends time and cultures.