Bread making is an art, and these days, artists use some amazing tools to create masterpieces. So why should making bread be any different? 

The stand mixer is your kitchen’s unsung hero, especially when it comes to bread. As someone with two decades of recipe development under my belt, my stand mixer is basically my best friend. It’s gotten A LOT of use over the years. It’s **seen some things**, and still stuck by me. We should all be so lucky to find an appliance with that kind of reliability.

So today we’re getting into the perks of stand mixers, the best way to get the most out of yours, and some of the best bread recipes you can make with your own stand mixer.

The Pros of Using a Stand Mixer when Making Bread:

Effortless Kneading: One of the most labor-intensive steps in the bread making process is kneading. (Definitely not my favorite thing to do). But when you have a stand mixer equipped with a dough hook attachment, it’s a game-changer! So, unless you skipped arm day and want to get in an intense workout in, let that stand mixer do the heavy lifting for you.

Consistency: Getting the right dough consistency down can be tricky, especially for beginners. Stand mixers give you that even, consistent mix that’s important for good bread texture. The bowl of your stand mixer also plays a pivotal role in this by reaching where making sure all ingredients (especially where the dough clings to the side of the bowl) are mixed in evenly.

Versatility: Making a simple white loaf, artisan sourdough, or something more exotic like olive and rosemary focaccia? Whatever the case, a stand mixer can handle a wide variety of dough types.

Saves You Time: Using a stand mixer SIGNIFICANTLY cuts down on prep time, so you can focus on just making sure your dough achieves that first rise.

Quick Tips for Using a Stand Mixer:

Start Slow: Set your stand mixer to the lowest speed to ensure it can mix your ingredients without creating a flour storm. Once you’re sure they’ll be confined to the large bowl, gradually increase the kneading speed.

Use the Dough Hook: Always use the dough hook attachment for bread dough. It’s specially designed to mimic hand-kneading and will make sure your dough develops enough gluten.

Don’t Overdo It: Over-kneading can make your bread tough. Watch for signs that the dough is ready, like the dough pulling away from the sides of the bowl and having a slightly tacky but not sticky texture.

Let It Rest: Giving your dough some time to rest in the mixing bowl after the kneading is done will allow the gluten to relax and make it easier to work with. 

Clean-Up Tip: Want to make clean-up easier? Fill the mixer bowl with warm soapy water and let it run for a minute or two. Most of the dough’s residues will come loose, so you won’t have to use as much elbow grease. Putting plastic wrap on your surfaces can also help to keep them clean from any possible flour explosions.

Now that you know the benefits and tips, let’s dive into 10 amazing homemade bread recipes that you can whip up with your stand mixer!

Classic Bread Recipe by Tastes Better From Scratch

Looking to keep things simple? You’re gonna love this classic bread recipe. What makes it stand out? It’s the epitome of pantry-friendly, and doesn’t require fresh dairy or eggs. It’s also foolproof, making it perfect for beginner and veteran bakers alike.

Jaden’s Quick Tip: Add a sprinkle of your favorite herbs to this simple bread for a gourmet twist!

Get the full recipe here.

White Bread with KitchenAid Mixer by Cooking with Emily

Wondering how to make bread dough with a KitchenAid mixer? This white bread recipe demystifies the process, and comes complete with a handy video guide. AND, it only takes a few staple cupboard ingredients.

Jaden’s Quick Tip: For a beautifully golden crust, brush the top of the dough with a little milk before baking.

Check out how it’s done here.

Perfect Loaf of French Bread by Steamy Kitchen

This is one of my favorite recipes. It’s also a great recipe for first-timers and seasoned bakers alike. With just a little instant yeast, a few cups of flour, some salt and warm water, you too can achieve perfectly crust, golden loaves of bread.

Jaden’s Quick Tip: Slash the top of your loaf just before baking. Not only does it add an artisanal touch, but it also helps the bread expand like magic in the oven.

Learn to bake French bread here.

Beginner-Friendly Cranberry Walnut Bread by The Kitchen Girl

This recipe combines the tartness of cranberries with the rich texture of walnuts in a plump, chewy loaf. It’s a subtly sweet great addition to family breakfasts. Taking your first step into the world of yeast breads? This is the recipe for you!

Jaden’s Quick Tip: For some flavor and a great texture, lightly toast the walnuts and give the cranberries a quick sauté before mixing them into the dough.

Discover how to create this delightful bread here.

Cinnamon Swirl Raisin Bread by Fifteen Spatulas

Enjoy the sweet comfort of Cinnamon Raisin Bread? Who doesn’t?! This is a recipe strike the perfect balance of cinnamon and juicy raisins. It’s basically a warm hug in a loaf.

Jaden’s Quick Tip: For a more pronounced cinnamon flavor, infuse the sweet stuff by throwing a cinnamon stick into your sugar container.

Get the full cinnamon swirl experience here.

Small Batch Whole Wheat Bread by Mel’s Kitchen Cafe

This whole wheat bread recipe is perfect for anyone looking to make a smaller quantity of bread without compromising flavor or fluffiness.

Jaden’s Quick Tip: Brush the dough with a bit of warm water before baking to achieve a beautifully crispy crust that complements the soft interior.

Discover the joy of whole wheat bread here.

Pull Apart Garlic Bread by Rasa Malaysia

Garlic bread is as much fun to make as it is to eat when you’re making this pull-apart version. It’s loaded with delicious garlic butter and features a beautiful golden brown crust. Sure to impress any carb enthusiast.

Jaden’s Quick Tip: Be sure to add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan inside the layers before baking for an extra cheesy kick!

Learn how to pull off this garlic bread here.

Simple Sourdough Bread by I Am Baker

This recipe is Sourdough bread, simplified and non-intimidating. After nurturing your sourdough starter, turn your hard work into a bread that boasts both a crusty exterior and a chewy interior. If you’re making sourdough for the first time, THIS is the perfect recipe to check out!

Jaden’s Quick Tip: Mist your oven with water just before baking to create steam. This will help you achieve that iconic sourdough crust.

Embrace the simplicity of sourdough here.

Soft Whole Wheat Bread by Sally’s Baking Addiction

This soft whole wheat bread recipe is super flexible, and you can adjust the flour types to your preference. It’s also packed with tips and step-by-step pictures for those who are new to yeast or whole wheat baking.

Jaden’s Quick Tip: For a softer crust, wrap your baked bread in a clean towel while it cools, so that it traps the steam and softens the exterior.

Get the full guide to whole wheat baking here.

Soft Cheese Bread by Seasons and Suppers

Cheese lovers, rejoice! This soft cheese bread is filled with your choice of cheese to create a savory loaf. Perfect for any cheese board or as a standalone snack.

Jaden’s Quick Tip: Experiment with different cheese combos to find your favorite blend. A mix of sharp cheddar and blue cheese is a great one to try!

Indulge in cheesy goodness here.

Did you love these tips and 10 recipes? Is your stand mixer quickly becoming your new best friend? (Let it happen. It’s inevitable!)

Leave us a comment and let us know your favorite breads to make, and your favorite things to make with your stand mixer in general. We’d love to hear about it in the comments!

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