Let’s get real, here: fresh bread is one of the best things we, as humans, have ever come up with. There’s just not much better than the comforting, yeasty aroma that fills the whole house, foretelling the warm, chewy, hearty goodness to come. But, since we’re being honest, I’ve never made a true yeast-dough bread by hand, because I find it a little intimidating. Precise measurements, yeast, proofing, kneading, proofing, kneading… It just feels like there are so many things that could go wrong. It also seems like fun, though, and I keep promising myself that I’ll give it a try one day soon, but today is not that day. Today is the day that I want fresh, savory quick bread to go with dinner and I don’t have all day to babysit dough. Today is the day that I fill the house with that same delicious yeast smell and all I need is a can of beer, some simple kitchen staples, and less than an hour.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 3½ c. all-purpose flour
- ¼ c. granulated sugar
- ½ c. shredded parmesan cheese
- 1 T. baking powder
- 1 T. Italian seasoning
- 1 T. salt
- ½ t. garlic powder
- ¼ t. onion powder
- ¼ t. black pepper
- 12 oz. beer
- One stick (8 T.) unsalted butter
This recipe couldn’t be simpler. Turn on the oven to 350 and place a 9×5-inch loaf pan in the oven with the stick of butter in it. Allow the butter to melt while the oven is heating.
While you’re waiting on that, mix all of the dry ingredients, cheese, and beer in a mixing bowl until well combined. The dough will be fairly thick and sticky. When the butter is melted, pour the batter into the pan and gently push it into the corners. The butter will pool on top of the dough.
Next, just place the pan in the oven and bake for 50-70 minutes until golden brown. And that’s it! Easy-peasy, delicious bread.