For many, the idea of baking a fresh loaf at home is a daunting prospect, filled with images of lengthy kneading and hours of waiting for dough to prove. However, a remarkably simple recipe shared on social media is changing the game, proving that delicious homemade bread requires just two cheap ingredients and an air fryer.
The Revelation: A Minimalist Recipe from Instagram
Lifestyle writer Nicola Roy, who had never attempted bread-making before, decided to try the method after seeing a tutorial by Instagram creator Emily Scott, known online as What I Ate For Breakfast. The recipe, which requires no yeast, no special ovenware, and no proving time, promised a delicious result with minimal effort. The secret lies in using just 500g of self-raising flour and 475g of Greek yoghurt, with an optional pinch of salt.
How to Make Your Own Air Fryer Loaf
The process is straightforward. Begin by mixing the flour (and salt, if using) with the Greek yoghurt until a smooth dough forms. A dash of water can be added if the mixture seems too dry. Next, line your air fryer basket with baking paper and place the dough inside.
For a perfect golden finish, create an egg wash by beating one egg with a splash of milk. Brush this over the top of the dough and sprinkle with sesame seeds or your preferred topping.
The Foolproof Cooking Method
Cook the bread using your air fryer's bake setting at 160°C for 40 minutes. The loaf is ready when tapping the bottom produces a hollow sound. Nicola Roy found her loaf needed an extra 15 minutes, which she covered with foil to prevent burning. Despite initial worries about the dough overflowing, the result was perfectly contained and beautifully baked.
The final product had a satisfyingly crunchy crust with a chewy interior, reminiscent of sourdough but, in the writer's opinion, even tastier. Her family was equally impressed, struggling to believe it was made with just two basic ingredients. The bread is excellent served warm with butter or toasted with your favourite spread.
This accessible method has demystified bread-making, turning a potentially complex kitchen task into a quick and rewarding endeavour. For beginners or anyone short on time, this air fryer recipe offers a guaranteed route to fresh, homemade bread without the traditional fuss.