RECIPE WORLD MASTER

Bread is arguably one of the most important staples in our lives. Whether you're looking for a quick bite on the go or something to complement a meal, bread is hard to beat. And with so many types of breads out there, it can be hard to decide which one to choose.

Which Upper Crust Loaves Are Worth the Dough?

There's no denying that the latest trend in bread is the artisanal, hand-crafted loaf. However, with so many bakeries and bread makers popping up everywhere, it can be hard to know which ones are actually worth the price tag. Here, we take a look at some of the most popular upper crust loaves out there and give you our verdict on which ones are worth the dough.

Bread Ahead's Multigrain Loaf

Bread Ahead is a well-known bakery with locations throughout London. The bakery has made a name for itself selling freshly baked artisanal loaves, among other things. We tried the bakery's multigrain loaf and were pleasantly surprised by its texture and flavor.

The multigrain loaf is packed with different grains and seeds, including sunflower seeds, poppy seeds, and linseed. The bread has a chewy, dense texture and a nutty flavor. It's perfect for sandwiches or as an accompaniment to soup or salad.

Bread Ahead's Caramel, Sea Salt, and Honeycomb Loaf

Bread Ahead is also known for its sweet breads, and we couldn't resist trying the bakery's caramel, sea salt, and honeycomb loaf. The bread is sweet and salty with a crunchy texture thanks to the honeycomb pieces sprinkled throughout.

The caramel, sea salt, and honeycomb loaf is perfect for breakfast or as a mid-afternoon snack. It's best enjoyed with a cup of coffee or tea.

Ingredient

For multigrain loaf

• 300g strong white flour
• 100g wholemeal flour
• 100g rye flour
• 100g multigrain mix (rye flakes, spelt flakes, wheat flakes, barley flakes, maize grits, linseed and sunflower seeds)
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1 teaspoon dried yeast
• 300ml tepid water

For caramel, sea salt, and honeycomb loaf

• 500g strong white flour
• 1 teaspoon dried yeast
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 350ml tepid water
• 4 tablespoons caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• 1 tablespoon flaked sea salt
• 50g honeycomb pieces

Tools

• Large mixing bowl
• Kitchen scales
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking tray
• Oven

How to Make Multigrain Loaf

1. Mix the flours, multigrain mix, sugar, salt and yeast together in a large mixing bowl.
2. Add the water and mix until a sticky dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic.
4. Transfer the dough to a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean cloth and leave to prove in a warm place for 1 hour 30 minutes, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat the oven to 220°C/fan 200°C/gas mark 7.
6. Tip the dough out onto a floured surface and shape into a round. Place on a baking tray and leave to prove for a further 30 minutes, or until doubled in size.
7. Bake the loaf for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.

How to Make Caramel, Sea Salt, and Honeycomb Loaf

1. Mix the flour, yeast and salt together in a large mixing bowl.
2. Add the water and mix until a sticky dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic.
4. Transfer the dough to a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean cloth and leave to prove in a warm place for 1 hour 30 minutes, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat the oven to 220°C/fan 200°C/gas mark 7.
6. Tip the dough out onto a floured surface and shape into a round. Place on a baking tray.
7. Spread the caramel sauce over the top of the dough, then sprinkle with the sea salt and honeycomb pieces.
8. Leave to prove for a further 30 minutes, or until doubled in size.
9. Bake the loaf for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.

Tips

If you don't have a warm place to prove your dough, you can heat your oven to the lowest possible setting, then turn it off and place your dough inside. The residual heat will help the dough to rise.

Note

You can experiment with different flours and grains when making your own multigrain loaf. Try using spelt flour, oatmeal, or even quinoa flakes!

In conclusion, Bread Ahead's multigrain loaf and caramel, sea salt, and honeycomb loaf are both worth the dough, depending on your personal tastes. Both loaves are versatile, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. So next time you're looking for a bread that's a cut above the rest, give one of these loaves a try!