Hi Lori, 

I hope this letter finds you well and thriving. We’ve had quite the eventful week here at LMR, with getting the rest of the garden in and then just last night, we were hit with a late frost. Thankfully, our frost blankets came to the rescue, and the plants seem to be doing alright.

On a brighter note, I wanted to share one of my all-time favorite bread recipes with you. Whether you prefer white or whole wheat, this simple bread recipe is perfect for any occasion. It's straightforward, delicious, and fills the kitchen with the most wonderful aroma.

White or Whole Wheat Simple Bread Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 quart (4 cups) of warm water
• 1 tbsp yeast
• 2 tsp salt
• ¼ cup honey
• ¼ cup olive oil
• 6-8 cups of flour (1.5 cups sprouted whole wheat flour and the rest all-purpose)

Instructions:

1. Activate Yeast: In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until the yeast is activated and frothy.
2. Combine Ingredients: Stir in salt, honey, and olive oil until well combined.
3. Form Dough: Gradually add the flour, mixing well after each addition, until a dough forms. Add more if necessary.
4. Knead Dough: Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic or for 4-5 minutes in a mixer with a dough attachment.
5. First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size. If using 100% whole wheat flour, punch it down and let it rise again.
6. Shape Loaves: Punch down the dough to release the air bubbles, then divide it into three equal-sized loaves. Shape each portion into a loaf and place them in greased loaf pans.
7. Second Rise: Cover the pans with a kitchen towel and let the dough rise for another 30-45 minutes.
8. Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Bake the loaves in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped.
9. Cool and Enjoy: Remove the loaves from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack before slicing. If you can't restrain yourself, be careful not to burn your fingers! One guess as to the kind pf person I am! 😉

I’d love to see your bread creations! Please tag me on Instagram @LittleMountainRanch or send me a picture via email. Nothing makes me happier than seeing our community enjoying homemade goodness.

Stay warm (or cool depending on where you are), and happy baking!

Much love,

Chelsea