This Beer Bread is an absolute game-changer infused with the rich, malty flavors of your favorite brew. The aroma alone will have your mouth watering before you even take that first bite.
You don't need any fancy equipment, special ingredients, or baking experience to whip up this tasty treat. With just a handful of pantry staples and a bottle of beer, you can have a bakery-worthy loaf on your table in about an hour.
Whether you're a seasoned baker or a complete novice, this beer bread recipe is about to become your new go-to. It's perfect for serving alongside soups, stews, or chili, or even with butter for a delicious snack.
Why You Will Love This Beer Bread
Here are some reasons why you will love this unique and delicious dish:
Incredibly Easy: With just a few simple ingredients and no yeast, kneading, or rising time required, this beer bread recipe is a breeze to make. Even novice bakers can whip up a delicious loaf in no time!
Versatile: This recipe is a blank canvas for endless flavor variations. Experiment with different beer styles, mix in cheese or herbs, or sprinkle on some seasoning for a customized loaf that suits your taste preferences.
Quick: From start to finish, this beer bread takes just over an hour to make, with only 5 minutes of active prep time. It's the perfect solution when you need a last-minute side dish or homemade bread fix.
Comforting: There's something so satisfying about a simple, rustic loaf of bread fresh from the oven. The aroma of baking beer bread will fill your kitchen with warmth and comfort, making it a cozy addition to any meal.
INGREDIENTS
Here’s everything you need for this savory sensation:
- Self-rising flour: This is a combination of all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. The baking powder acts as a leavening agent to help the bread rise without the need for yeast.
- Sugar: A small amount of sugar is added to feed the yeast in the beer and help with browning. It provides a very subtle sweetness.
- Beer: The star ingredient! The carbonation in the beer helps leaven the bread, while the yeast adds flavor. Different beer styles will impart varying flavors - lighter beers are more subtle, while darker ales or stouts lend a richer taste.
- Butter (optional): Melted butter brushed or poured over the top of the loaf before baking creates a crispy, flavorful crust. You can omit it for a softer crust.
How To Make Beer Bread
Making this dish couldn’t be easier:
Step1.Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan with cooking spray or butter.
Step2.In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 3 cups (340g) of self-rising flour and ½ cup (100g) of granulated sugar until well combined.
Step3.Slowly pour in 12 ounces (355ml) of beer and mix with a wooden spoon or spatula until a thick, shaggy batter forms. Be careful not to overmix - some small lumps are okay.
Step4.Transfer the batter to the prepared loaf pan and spread it out evenly with a spatula.
Step5.If using, melt 3 tablespoons (42g) of unsalted butter and brush or drizzle it over the top of the batter. This is optional but creates a golden, crispy crust.
Step6.Bake the bread on the middle rack for 40-50 minutes, until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step7.Remove from the oven and let the bread cool in the pan for 5-10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step8.Once cooled, slice the beer bread with a serrated knife and serve. It's delicious warm or at room temperature, plain or with butter.
Tips For The Best Homemade Beer Bread
Here are my top tips to ensure your beer bread is perfect:
- Use room-temperature beer for best results. Cold beer can shock the batter and lead to a denser texture. Let refrigerated beer sit out for 30 minutes before using.
- Experiment with different beer styles to change the flavor profile. Lighter beers like lagers or pilsners will have a subtler taste, while darker beers like stouts or porters will lend a richer, more complex flavor.
- Add herbs or spices to customize the flavor. Try stirring in 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh rosemary, thyme, or dill, or 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, onion powder, or smoked paprika.
- Brush the top with melted butter before baking for a golden, crispy crust. You can also sprinkle on some flaky sea salt or everything bagel seasoning for extra flavor and crunch.
- Serve beer bread alongside soups, stews, or chili, or as an appetizer with dips like spinach artichoke or buffalo chicken. It's also delicious toasted with butter or made into sandwiches.
How To Store
Follow these steps to store leftover beer bread so you can enjoy it again!
To Store: Leftover beer bread can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container or plastic bag for 2-3 days. For longer storage, wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil and keep in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
To Freeze: To freeze beer bread, allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil. Place the wrapped loaf in an airtight container, beer bread will keep in the freezer for 2-3 months.
To Reheat: Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Remove the bread from any wrappings and place directly on the oven rack or a baking sheet. Bake for 35 minutes until heated through.
Beer Bread
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Ingredients
- 340 g 1 ¾ cups self-rising flour
- 100 g ½ cup granulated sugar
- 355 ml 1 ½ cups beer
- 25 g 1.8 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F). Grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan with cooking spray.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the self-rising flour and granulated sugar until well combined.
- Pour in the beer and mix until a thick, smooth batter forms. Be careful not to overmix.
- Transfer the batter to the prepared loaf pan and level the top with a spatula.
- If using butter, drizzle the melted butter over the batter during the last 3-5 minutes of baking time.
- Bake for 40 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Remove from oven and allow to cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, try using a darker beer like a stout or porter.
- If you don't have self-rising flour, make your own by combining 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1 ½ teaspoon baking powder, and ¼ teaspoon salt.
- Brush the top with melted butter for an extra golden, crispy crust.
- Leftovers can be stored at room temperature for 2-3 days in an airtight container.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of beer?
Yes, you can experiment with various beer styles like ales, lagers, stouts, or even hard ciders for different flavors.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
Simply substitute the butter for a vegan butter or oil alternative.
Can I add mix-ins like cheese, herbs, or fruit?
Absolutely! Fold in shredded cheese, chopped herbs, dried fruit, or nuts for extra flavor.
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