Beer Bread

This is one of the easiest bread recipes that I have ever made, and I have to admit was very surprised to see this in my Grandmother’s recipe book. I have no idea where she could have picked this one up from, as it simply states Beer bread, and has no mention of whomsoever gave this to her.

I do remember though, while I was little there was a general strike which affected the imports of loads of items, and bread (namely yeast and flour) was one of the items which were short on demand. I can only assume this recipe heralds from those days, but nevertheless it is an absolutely delicious crusty bread with a spongy centre. Perfect for slopping up gravy and toasting.

Give it a try, its done in a little under 1 1/2 hours, and is the perfect project for an afternoon.

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6-8

1 hour 15 min

Ingredients

360 grams (3 cups) self raising flour. If you are using plain flour measure out the 360 grams and add 3 teaspoons of baking powder to this.

55 grams (1/4 cup) granulated sugar

113 grams (1/2 cup) melted salted butter

1 can (330 ml) Pilsner light beer

Extra flour for bringing the dough together at step 4.

Instructions

Pre heat oven to 190 C. Grease and line a standard loaf pan.

In a large bowl, sift together the sugar and flour. This is a must do step and you should not omit it, as it helps the dough rise in the oven. If you do not do this, your bread will be stodgy and thick. DO NOT SKIP

Add the melted butter and beer into the dry ingredients. Mix to combine. It will be a shaggy dough.

Add some flour to your work table and transfer the dough here. Bring the dough together with your hands, adding a little flour if it's too wet. You should have a pliant firm dough ball.

Transfer the dough into your greased loaf pan, and Bake on the middle shelf of your oven for 1 hour.

Check the dough to see that it is done by inserting a toothpick in the centre which should come out clean. If it's not, then bake for a further 5 mins. Remove from oven, and cool in pan for at least 15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack or a cutting board.