Air Bread
Air Bread is a light, fluffy bread with a tender crumb, featuring subtle sweetness from honey and a hint of richness from oil, perfect for breakfast or snacks.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix yeast, sugar, 6 cups of flour, and salt together in a bowl.
- In a pan, heat the skim milk, salad oil, and honey to 120°F.
- Pour the heated liquid into the dry ingredients and add the lightly beaten egg whites.
- Add another cup of flour and beat with a wooden spoon until well combined.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, ensure your milk is heated to the correct temperature (120°F) to activate the yeast properly. If you prefer a richer flavor, you can substitute whole milk for skim milk. To enhance the bread's texture, try adding a tablespoon of vital wheat gluten. If you don't have salad oil, you can use olive oil or melted butter instead.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Air Bread warm with a pat of butter or alongside soups and salads for a delightful meal. It pairs beautifully with Mock Indian Pudding for a comforting dessert. For a savory twist, consider serving it with a spread of hummus or a fresh herb butter. This bread is also great for sandwiches or as a base for an open-faced lunch.
Storage & Reheating
After baking, allow the Air Bread to cool completely before storing. Wrap it in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the bread in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply wrap in foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Air Bread contains roughly 675 calories, with 22g protein, 114g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (46% of the Daily Value), protein (45% of the Daily Value), and calcium (39% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2455mg per serving (107% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of white flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for white flour, but start with 4-5 cups and gradually add more as needed. Whole wheat flour absorbs more liquid, so you may need to adjust the amount of liquid ingredients slightly. This will give your Air Bread a denser texture and a nuttier flavor.
What can I do if my yeast doesn't activate?
If your yeast doesn't foam after mixing with sugar and warm milk, it may be expired or the milk was too hot. Always check the yeast's expiration date before use. If the mixture doesn’t bubble after 10 minutes, discard it and start over with fresh yeast and properly heated milk.
Can I add herbs or spices to the dough?
Absolutely! Adding herbs like rosemary or thyme, or spices such as garlic powder, can elevate the flavor of your Air Bread. Start with a teaspoon of dried herbs or spices and adjust to your taste. This customization can make the bread a perfect accompaniment to a variety of dishes.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).