I am about start baking bread loaves for neighbor gifts instead of cookies. I've become pretty good at baking a two loaf recipe, but is there anything I should know before doubling it?

-- Debbie in Mo (risingwind@socket.net), December 08, 2001

Answers

multiply everything by 2

-- stan (sopal@net-port.com), December 08, 2001.

I measure everything by the amount of liquid I use. For example, if I use 1 1/4 cups of water, I know I'm going to get 2 loaves of bread. That's the only thing I measure. 2 cups of water will give me 4 loaves of bread. I just dump and mix til it looks right.

-- CJ (cjtinkle@getgoin.net), December 08, 2001.

When multiplying a bread recipe, the amount of yeast needed per cup of flour is less than what is used for a two loaf recipe.

-- Tracy (tbrock@splitrocktel.net), December 08, 2001.

Use a tad less salt. That goes for doubling anything.

-- Bonnie (stichart@plix.com), December 08, 2001.

Try this recipe from daffodillady. It makes a huge batch and it's awesome:

"2 quarts water,(temperature you would enjoy a bath in.) 1/4 cup yeast, 1/4 cup salt, 1/2 cup honey or sugar. Mix all together, and add 3/4 cup oil or lard. Add about 5 cups of whole wheat flour and mix very well with a large strong spoon. Then add about half of a 5- lb bag of bread flour, and knead till all is absorbed. Add bread flour 1 cup at a time, kneading each in before adding more. Add only enough flour to make the dough not sticky. I do not find a very stiff dough works well. The kneading process takes about ten or more minutes."

-- Stacey (stacey@lakesideinternet.com), December 09, 2001.

Stacy, how may loaf pans am I going to need for that monster recipe? :)

-- Debbie in Mo (risingwind@socket.net), December 09, 2001.

All of them! :)

I made:

5 small loaves - no tiny, but not the normal size loaf pan, I bought the tin-foil type pans from the store and used those

12 or so each of hamburger and hot dog buns

1.5 doz rolls

And it was awesome. Love this recipe!!!!

-- Stacey (stacey@lakesideinternet.com), December 10, 2001.