Cracked Wheat Bread

Experience the rustic charm of Cracked Wheat Bread—a recipe that embodies the essence of comfort and wholesome goodness. Crafted to perfection, this 2-pound loaf brings together the nutty appeal of cracked wheat or bulgur with the rich flavor of molasses and butter. Seamlessly combining the ancient tradition of cracked grains with the modern convenience of a bread machine, this recipe invites you to embark on a journey of taste and texture that will leave your senses delighted.

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 cup boiling water
• ²⁄₃ cup cracked wheat or bulgur
• ¼ cup molasses
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter or margarine, cut into pieces
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 cup water
• 3½ cups bread flour
• ½ cup whole wheat flour
• 1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon gluten
• 1 tablespoon SAF yeast or 1 tablespoon plus ½ teaspoon bread machine yeast

PREPARATIONS:

• Pour boiling water over cracked wheat or bulgur in a bowl.
• Let the cracked wheat mixture stand at room temperature for 1 hour to soften.

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. In a bowl, pour the boiling water over the cracked wheat or bulgur. Add molasses, butter, and salt to the mixture. Allow it to stand at room temperature for 1 hour, letting the flavors meld and the cracked wheat or bulgur soften.
2. In the pan of your bread machine, place the ingredients according to the specified order in the recipe. Include the softened cracked wheat mixture and the additional water as part of the liquid ingredients.
3. Set the crust setting on medium and select the Basic cycle on your bread machine. If your bread machine offers the Delay Timer feature, you can make use of it with this recipe.
4. As the baking cycle completes, promptly remove the freshly baked bread from the pan and transfer it onto a cooling rack. Give the loaf sufficient time to cool to room temperature before proceeding to slice.

NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION PER SERVING:

• Calories: 74
• Net Carbs: 12.5g
• Total Carbs: 14g
• Fat: 1.1g
• Protein: 2.5g

YIELD:

• Makes 2 pounds

Cracked Wheat Bread emerges as a culinary masterpiece that beautifully bridges the gap between tradition and innovation. In every slice, you’re treated to the robust flavors of cracked wheat or bulgur, the richness of molasses, and the smooth allure of butter. This 2-pound loaf captures the essence of wholesome ingredients and artisanal craftsmanship, all while being conveniently prepared using a modern bread machine.

From the moment you pour boiling water over the cracked wheat or bulgur and let the mixture steep, you’re setting the stage for a symphony of flavors. The molasses adds depth and sweetness, while the butter imparts a touch of richness that resonates in every bite.

With the precision of a bread machine, the ingredients come together seamlessly. The resulting dough is a canvas for the intricate layers of taste and texture that define this bread. As the baking cycle unfolds, the aromas fill your kitchen, inviting you to anticipate the moment when you’ll finally savor each slice.

As the baking cycle concludes, the bread is released from the confines of the pan. The crust—set to medium—promises an ideal balance between a tender interior and a slightly crisp exterior. Transferring the loaf onto a cooling rack, you’re reminded of the artistry that goes into each homemade creation.

Allow the bread to cool to room temperature before slicing. This step ensures that the crumb structure is well-defined and the flavors have fully developed. Each slice is a testament to your culinary prowess and your commitment to nourishing both body and soul.

In conclusion, Cracked Wheat Bread is an embodiment of the harmony that can be achieved when ancient grains meet modern technology. With only 74 calories per serving and a mere 1.1g of fat, this bread stands as a testament to how nourishing and fulfilling homemade creations can be. The combination of flavors, textures, and the satisfaction of crafting something from scratch make this recipe a worthwhile endeavor.

In every bite, you’ll find the essence of tradition, innovation, and the simple pleasure of a well-made loaf. Whether enjoyed on its own, toasted, or used to craft sandwiches, Cracked Wheat Bread is a reminder that the art of bread-making is a journey that nourishes not only the body but also the soul.