Cheap Gluten-Free Homemade Bread

Ingredients

• 1 packet active dry yeast (2.25 tsp)
• 1.25 cup warm water (300 mL; do not make it hot or you will kill the yeast)
• 2 tbsp sugar (used to feed the yeast)
• 2.5 cup gluten-free flour (300g; 1:1 GF flour replacement)
• 1 tbsp salt (at least 1 tbsp for flavor and structure)
• 2 eggs (see substitutions for egg-free options)
• 3 tbsp oil (any neutral cooking oil)
• 1 tbsp white or apple cider vinegar
• 2 tbsp ground flaxseed (binder option: mix with 6 tbsp water and let congeal for 5 mins)

Steps

1. 1

   In a bowl, combine 1 1/4 cups of warm water (not hot) with 2 tablespoons of sugar and 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) of yeast. Stir and leave it alone for about 5 minutes to bloom.

2. 2

   In a separate large mixing bowl, combine 2 1/2 cups (300g) of gluten-free flour and at least 1 tablespoon of salt.

3. 3

   Prepare your binder. If using flax eggs, mix 2 tablespoons of ground flax with 6 tablespoons of water and let it congeal for 5 minutes before using.

4. 4

   Add the wet ingredients to the flour mixture: the bloomed yeast mixture, 2 eggs (or chosen substitution), 3 tablespoons of oil, 1 tablespoon of vinegar, and your chosen binder.

5. 5

   Mix everything together thoroughly. If the dough looks too stiff, add a little more water; if it looks like thin cake batter, add a little more flour until you reach a bread dough consistency.

6. 6

   Oil your loaf pan generously and transfer the dough into the pan.

7. 7

   Let the dough proof in the pan for about 30 minutes. Do not let it proof for too long or it may collapse in the oven.

8. 8

   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

9. 9

   Optional: Smooth a little water over the top of the loaf before baking to help prevent cracking.

10. 10

    Bake at 375°F for approximately 50 minutes.

11. 11

    Remove from the oven and let the bread cool completely before cutting.

Notes

Egg Substitutions (for 2 eggs): 1/2 cup (120 mL) applesauce, 1/2 cup (125 mL) mashed banana, or 1/2 cup (120 mL) chickpea juice (aquafaba). Binder Options (choose one): 2 flax eggs, 1/4 cup (120 mL) mashed or instant potatoes, or 1/4 cup (120 mL) powdered/ground oats.

Nutrition per serving

• gluten-free
• bread
• budget-friendly
• baking
• dairy-free
• vegetarian