Fancy making some bread as good as theBake Offjudge himself? Then look no further, as we’ve rounded up Paul Hollywood’s best bread recipes so you can bake and enjoy your very own beautiful loaf of bread.
Sourdough Bread
Serves 1 loaf | Prep 2+ hours | Bake time 30 minutes to 1 hour
Sourdough has risen in popularity and is loved for its chewy texture, crispy crust and tangy flavour. It’s also a popular bread that Paul and Prue challenge the bakers to make on The Great British Bake Off. We recommend enjoying simply with a spread of butter or alongside your morning eggs.
White Cob
Serves 1 loaf | Prep 3 hours | Bake time 30 minutes
You can never go wrong with a simple white loaf. Paul recommends this particular recipe for beginner bread makers as it can be made in a tin. The key to checking whether your bread is done once it’s removed from the oven is by giving it a tap on the bottom, if it sounds hollow, you’re good to go!
Focaccia Bread
Serves 1 loaf | Prep 2+ hours | Bake time 30 minutes to 1 hour
If you’re a fan of Italian food then you should definitely give this focaccia bread a go, as not only does it originate from Italy, but it also has a very similar style and texture to pizza. Finished with a little sea salt and a drizzle of olive oil, this bread can be enjoyed as a side dish alongside some steaming soup, or made into a delicious sandwich.
Read more: 13 slow cooker soup recipes for cold winter evenings
Soda Bread
Serves 1 loaf | Bake time 30 minutes
Soda bread is extremely popular in Ireland and is leavened with bicarbonate of soda instead of yeast, so it’s quick to make and easy for beginners. This loaf can be popped onto a plate in just 45 minutes. Once you’ve mastered the recipe, Paul suggests adding in your own ingredients to switch up the flavour.
Stilton and Walnut Soda Bread
Serves 1 loaf | Bake time 30 to 35 minutes
This savoury soda bread has added flavour with addition of stilton and walnuts. Once you feel more confident with the recipe, you can test and trial your own flavours. Paul says this loaf is best eaten on the day, however, if you can’t finish it, it can also be frozen.