Skipping the Instruction Manual
When you get a new bread machine, the excitement of baking bread may tempt you to dive right in without reading the instruction manual. However, skipping the manual could lead to mistakes and disappointment. The manual contains important information such as the amount of ingredients to use based on the machine’s capacity, recommended settings, and troubleshooting tips for when things go wrong.
Using Old Ingredients
Using old and expired ingredients such as flour, yeast, and milk can result in a failed bread. Check the expiration dates on your ingredients before using them. Additionally, make sure to store your ingredients properly in a cool and dry place.
Overloading the Machine
It’s important to not overload the bread machine. If you put too much dough or too many ingredients in the machine, it can result in a dense and undercooked bread. Always follow the machine’s capacity guidelines listed in the manual.
Not Monitoring the Dough
The bread machine does a lot of the work for you, but it’s important to monitor the dough during the kneading process. If the dough seems too dry or wet, you may need to adjust the ingredients or add a little more water or flour. Monitoring the dough will ensure that the bread comes out perfectly.
Skipping the Cooling Period
Once the bread is done baking, it’s important to let it cool in the machine for at least 10-15 minutes before removing it. Skipping this step can result in a mushy and undercooked bread. Additionally, letting the bread cool in the machine will make it easier to slice and prevent it from falling apart.
