Church's Chicken is renowned for its crispy fried chicken, but among its lesser-known offerings, the Church's U-Tube Bread has been a delightful surprise for many. Known for its unique, tube-like shape and fluffy texture, this bread has captured the hearts of many who've had the chance to try it. Whether it's the nostalgia or the intriguing taste, recreating this bread at home can be both an enjoyable and rewarding experience. Here's how you can bring a bit of that Church's magic to your kitchen with this step-by-step guide on making Church's U-Tube Bread.
The Essential Ingredients
Before diving into the steps, let's ensure you have all the ingredients on hand:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 package active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup warm water
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 large egg
- Melted butter for brushing
Step-by-Step Recipe
1. Preparing the Yeast
Start with activating the yeast:
- In a small bowl, combine the warm water, a pinch of sugar, and the yeast. Let it sit for about 10 minutes, or until it becomes frothy. This is a sign that your yeast is active and ready to work.
2. Mixing the Dough
Now, let’s combine the rest of your ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, sift the flour, sugar, and salt together.
- Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture, oil, and the egg.
- Mix until you get a shaggy dough, then knead on a floured surface until smooth.
3. First Rise
Allow the dough to rest and rise:
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
4. Shaping the U-Tubes
This is where the magic happens:
- After the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air.
- Divide the dough into equal portions. Roll each portion into a long rope, about 12 inches in length.
- Twist each rope into a U-shape, pressing the ends together to form the classic U-tube.
5. Second Rise
Give your U-tubes one final proof:
- Place the U-tubes onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover them again with a damp cloth and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
6. Baking
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C):
- Once the second rise is complete, bake the U-tubes for about 15-20 minutes or until they are golden brown.
- Immediately after baking, brush the tops with melted butter for that signature sheen and flavor.
🍞 Note: Keep an eye on the oven. Baking times might vary due to different oven temperatures.
Enjoying Your Church’s U-Tube Bread
Once your homemade Church’s U-Tube Bread is ready, allow it to cool slightly:
- Serve warm with additional butter or use as a side for soups, stews, or your favorite fried chicken recipe.
Recreating Church's U-Tube Bread at home is more than just following a recipe; it's about recreating a piece of culinary history, bringing joy, and adding a unique touch to your family meals. With these steps, you can enjoy the taste of Church's Chicken in the comfort of your own home, tailored to your liking with the perfect amount of fluffiness and flavor.
Can I freeze the dough before baking?
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Yes, you can freeze the shaped dough before the second rise. Simply cover it well and freeze. When ready to bake, let it thaw and rise as directed, then bake as usual.
What if my bread doesn’t rise?
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This could be due to inactive yeast, insufficient rising time, or not keeping the dough in a warm environment. Ensure your yeast is active before starting, and try to find a warm, draft-free spot for rising.
Can I add ingredients to the dough?
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Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with cheese, garlic, or herbs like rosemary or thyme for additional flavors.
How long can I store the baked bread?
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The bread is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days or frozen for longer shelf life. Reheat in the oven to restore its texture.
