In a small bowl, mix the dry yeast with 1 tablespoon of sugar and half of the warm milk. Let it sit for about 10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sifted flour, flax seeds, salt, and baking powder.
Combine Wet Ingredients:
In another bowl, whisk together the remaining warm milk, apple cider vinegar, egg, sunflower oil, and the remaining sugar.
Form the Dough:
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until well combined.
Add the frothy yeast mixture and continue to mix until a dough forms.
Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
First Rise:
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.
Shape the Dough:
After the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Knead it briefly and shape it into a loaf or divide it into smaller portions to make individual rolls.
Place the shaped dough into a greased loaf pan or on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Second Rise:
Cover the dough again and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 180 degrees Celsius (350 degrees Fahrenheit).
Bake the Bread:
Before placing the bread in the oven, brush the top with the softened butter.
Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped.
Cool the Bread:
Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this bread fresh with butter, jam, or honey.
Use it for making sandwiches, toast, or as a side for soups and salads.
Cooking Tips
Make sure the milk is warm but not hot, as too high a temperature can kill the yeast.
Knead the dough well to develop the gluten, which gives the bread its structure.
Nutritional Benefits
Flax Seeds: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and lignans.
Whole Milk: Provides calcium and vitamin D.
Egg: Adds protein and helps in binding the dough.
Dietary Information
This bread contains gluten and dairy.
To make it dairy-free, substitute the milk with a plant-based milk and the butter with a vegan alternative.
Storage Tips
Room Temperature: Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze the bread for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature and reheat in the oven if desired.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This flaxseed bread is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. It is perfect for any meal and easy to make, making it a great addition to your baking repertoire.