Unleash a burst of color at your dining table with this eye-catching Rainbow Bread. This homemade delight combines vibrant hues with the delicious taste of freshly baked bread, making any meal or celebration a bit more joyful.
Ingredients:
- Flour: 2 cups (approx. 250 grams)
- Water: 2/3 cup (approx. 160 milliliters), warmed
- Sugar: 1.5 tablespoons (approx. 20 grams)
- Salt: A pinch
- Active Dry Yeast: 1 sachet
- Butter: 1.5 tablespoons (approx. 20 grams), melted
- Food Coloring: Various colors
Directions:
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and yeast. Mix these dry ingredients thoroughly.
- Add the warmed water and melted butter to the dry mixture. Mix and knead until you have a smooth, elastic dough, which should take about 10 minutes by hand or with a stand mixer using a dough hook.
- Color the Dough:
- Divide the dough evenly into seven portions for the colors of the rainbow.
- Work a different food coloring into each portion until the colors are evenly distributed through the dough.
- Proof the Dough:
- Place each colored dough portion in a separate bowl, cover them with a damp cloth, and let them rise in a warm, draft-free area until they double in size, which will take about 1 hour.
- Shape the Bread:
- Once risen, punch down the dough to release air bubbles. Roll each colored dough into long strands.
- Twist or layer these strands together to create a marbled or striped effect. Shape into a loaf or individual rolls and place into a greased baking pan.
- Second Proofing:
- Cover the shaped dough with a damp cloth and let it rise until it becomes puffy, about 30 minutes.
- Baking:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake the bread for about 30 minutes, or until the crust is golden and sounds hollow when tapped.
- Cooling:
- Remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool on a wire rack before slicing to ensure the slices hold their shape.
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 1 loaf
Tips:
- For the most vibrant results, opt for gel food colorings as they are more concentrated than liquid forms.
- Make sure the water is warm—not too hot or cold—to properly activate the yeast.
- Rainbow Bread is not only perfect for special occasions like kids’ parties but also serves as a wonderful way to brighten everyday meals.
Conclusion: Rainbow Bread brings a splash of color and fun to your baking adventures. It’s perfect for those who enjoy creative culinary projects or want to add a special touch to festive occasions. Slice it up and watch the smiles multiply with every colorful piece!