the humidity in your area. Always store flour in an airtight container. Store whole grain flours (whole wheat, rye) in refrigerator to prevent them from becoming rancid.
Measure the amount of flour as directed in the recipe, but make any adjustments after the first
Do not exceed 3 cups of all purpose or bread flour for the 1½ pound loaf or 2 cups all purpose bread flour for the 1 pound loaf. Breads containing whole wheat, cereals or oats should not exceed a total of 3½ cups for the 1½ pound loaf; 2½ cups for the 1 pound loaf.
SUGAR AND OTHER SWEETENERS provide food for the yeast, add height and flavor to the bread and give the crust a golden color. Types of sweeteners that can be used include sugar, brown sugar, honey, molasses, maple syrup, corn syrup and fruits, whether dried or fresh. When using a liquid sweetener, such as honey or molasses, the total amount of liquid in the recipe will need to be reduced slightly by the same measurement of liquid sweetener used. A special tip when measuring sticky liquid sweeteners is to coat the measuring spoon with vegetable oil before measuring the sweetener; it will slide right out.
DO NOT USE ARTIFICIAL SWEETENERS AS A SUBSTITUTE FOR SUGAR AND OTHER NATURAL SWEETENERS AS THE YEAST WILL NOT REACT PROPERLY AND POOR RESULTS WILL BE OBTAINED.
MILK enhances flavor and increases the nutritional value of bread. Any type of milk (whole, 2%, 1%, skim, buttermilk or canned evaporated milk) can be used in making bread Refrigerated milk MUST ALWAYS be warmed to about 95°F/33°C before adding to the bread pan. Heat milk in glass measure in the microwave or in a small pan on top of the range until lukewarm, but not hot. Use a thermometer to measure the temperature accurately. DO NOT OVERHEAT the milk, above 110°F/43°C, as this can kill the yeast.
WATER used in combination with dry milk is a good substitute for regular milk and must be used when using the delay start timer of your bread maker as regular milk will spoil when left at room temperature for several hours.
Always use lukewarm water, about 95°F/35°C for best results. Do not use warm or hot water, above 110°F/43°C, as this can kill the yeast.
Using too much liquid can cause the bread to collapse during the bake cycle. During humid weather, slightly less liquid will be needed as the flour will absorb moisture from the air. In dry weather, slightly more liquid may be needed as flour can lose moisture.
Water and milk are interchangeable in recipes. Eliminate dry milk in recipes when substituting milk for water.
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