There’s nothing quite as enticing as the smell of fresh bread baking in the oven. However, for those of us with a dairy allergy or lactose intolerance, it can seem like torture because we can never taste what smells so good. Whether you can’t consume dairy or you choose to be vegan, finding bread without dairy can be challenging. That’s why making your own dairy-free bread is an excellent option for people who are lactose intolerant or have a dairy allergy. It is also suitable for people who follow a vegan or plant-based diet.
Watch the Recipe Video
Health benefits of dairy free bread
Choosing to make dairy free bread or dairy free rolls can provide several benefits including: reduced gastrointestinal distress, reduced inflammation, improved skin health, lower cholesterol, more fiber, and more vitamins and minerals.
People who suffer from lactose intolerance or a dairy allergy may experience bloating, gas, diarrhea, and extreme gastrointestinal distress after consuming dairy products. By eliminating dairy products from their diet, they can reduce these symptoms and improve their overall digestive health.
Dairy products have been linked to inflammation in some people. Inflammation can contribute to joint pain and chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and certain types of cancer. By eliminating dairy products from their diet, people can reduce inflammation and lower their risk of chronic disease.
Dairy products have been linked to acne and other skin conditions in some people. By eliminating dairy products from their diet, people may see an improvement in their skin health.
Dairy products contain cholesterol, which can contribute to heart disease. By using non-dairy ingredients in bread, people can reduce their cholesterol intake and lower their risk of heart disease.
Making your own dairy free bread also has the health benefits of added fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Many store bought breads contain dairy, fillers, preservatives, and over-processed ingredients. Homemade dairy-free bread tends to provide more fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Adding some whole grain flour or seeds can also increase the fiber, vitamins, and minerals in bread. Fiber is important for digestive health and can help to lower cholesterol and blood sugar levels. These additional nutrients are important for overall health and can help to reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
Is this dairy free bread recipe vegan?
Yes, this dairy free bread recipe is totally vegan. I even show you how you can make dairy free, vegan rolls if you prefer. Check out the video below.
Is there a way to increase the protein in this bread recipe?
Yes. Although the recipe will no longer be considered vegan, you can add an egg. Be sure to whisk the egg before adding it to the wet ingredients. Stir the whisked egg well into the wet ingredients before adding the dry ingredients (flour).
Common mistakes to avoid when baking dairy free bread
There are some common mistakes that people make when baking dairy free bread. Here are some of the most common mistakes to avoid:
Using too much or too little liquid: It is essential to use the correct amount of liquid in your recipe. Too much liquid can result in a dense, heavy bread, while too little liquid can result in a dry, crumbly bread.
Getting your water too hot. It is best to use liquid that is just a little warm. Any liquid that is overheated will kill the yeast and your bread will not rise.
Not letting your bread rise enough: Letting your bread rise enough is crucial to achieving the perfect texture and flavor. Follow this recipe’s instructions carefully and give your dough enough time to rise properly.
Now you can enjoy fresh, delicious bread like everyone else.
Ingredients
- 3 packages active, dry yeast
- 2 cups warm water (Not hot, too hot kills the yeast)
- ¾ cup sugar
- ¼ cup melted, dairy free butter alternative (Ex: Smart Balance)
- 2 tsp. salt
- 5½ to 6 cups white, all purpose flour (amount depends on if you add whole wheat flour or not)
- ½ cup whole wheat or whole grain flour (optional but adds nutrients)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, pour in 3 packages of yeast
- add the warm water and stir until yeast is mostly dissolved
- add melted butter (let it cool before adding)
- add sugar and stir well
- let mixture sit for 2-3 minutes
- add salt
- add about half the flour and mix into wet ingredients
- add remaining flour a cup at a time as you mix it in and start to knead the dough
- You should have a dough that is not sticky but also not overly dry
- lay dough on a sil pat, plastic cutting mat, or wax paper while you clean the bowl
- dry bowl thoroughly, add a little oil to bottom and sides of bowl
- place bread dough back in the bowl and cover with a tea towel or dish towel
- let the dough rise for approximately 2 hours until it doubles in size
- punch the dough down and knead
- divide the dough in half
- be sure to use a dairy free cooking spray to spray your pans
- put each half of dough in a bread/ loaf pan if making bread
- if making rolls, pinch off some dough and form rolls (see video)
- put rolls in your baking dish, alternating rows as you go
- let the dough rise again approximately 2 more hours
- when dough has risen, preheat oven to 350°
- when oven is ready, place pans in oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until the top of the bread or rolls look golden brown
