How do I Add Vinegar to Bread Mix?

Adding vinegar to a bread mix can help create large, airy holes like this.

Vinegar is usually added to bread mixes to impart a slightly sour tang to the bread dough, or to create additional air bubbles that will appear as nooks and crannies in the finished bread. When adding any ingredients in a recipe, it is important to note the order in which they are listed in that recipe. Recipes list ingredients in the order in which they are supposed to be added for desired results, and that holds true for bread mixes as well.

Things You'll Need

• Vinegar
• Measuring spoons
• Measuring cups
• Bread mix
• Bowl and spoon (optional)
• Bread machine (optional)

Instructions

1. Read all the directions on the bread mix package completely. Note that directions may be different depending on whether you are mixing batter manually in a bowl or via a bread machine.

2. Add ingredients in the order indicated by the bread mix. Measure vinegar exactly with measuring cups or spoons to ensure that you add the correct amount.

3. Pour vinegar into the bread mix according to the instructions, usually at the same time as the other liquids in the recipe.

Tips & Warnings

• If you do not have buttermilk on hand and the bread mix requires it, regular milk can be soured with the addition of a little white vinegar to serve as an acceptable buttermilk substitute. If you do this and your bread mix calls for vinegar as well, mix the buttermilk substitute together separately, then add the amount of vinegar specified in the directions.

• Avoid mixing the ingredients called for on the bread mix package together out of order. Package directions are listed in a specific manner so that everything combines in the most optimal way to create good bread. Combining them out of order could lead to less desirable results.

• Do not substitute one vinegar for another. Most bread mixes call for distilled white vinegar, which is sometimes simply called white vinegar. Apple cider, white wine, red wine, balsamic and other vinegars all have very distinct flavors. Substituting one for another will radically change the flavor and possibly also the texture of your bread. Make sure you have enough of the correct type of vinegar on hand before beginning to mix your bread mix.

References

• The Professional Chef (Eighth Edition); Culinary Institute of America; 2006
• The Bread Bible; Rose Levy Beranbaum; 2003