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1
Grease 7-8 (5x3-inch mini loaf pans); set aside.
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2
Warm oven to 200F for 5 minutes, then TURN OFF immediately after 5 minutes!
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3
(this creates a perfect temperature to rise dough).
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4
In the meantime, in a microwave 4-cup pyrex measuring cup, place the 1 cup buttermilk, 1/3 cup butter (cut into small chunks) 2-1/2 tablespoons sugar and 1-1/2 teaspoons salt; mix slightly with a spoon.
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5
Place in the microwave on HIGH for about 2 minutes, mixing after 1 minute (the butter does not have to be completely melted) the buttermilk should feel warm, but not hot; remove, stir again and set aside.
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6
Proof the yeast with 1 teaspoon sugar, in 1 cup warm water for 8-10 minutes, until foamy.
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7
Prepare the kneader hook on a heavy-duty stand mixer, and spray the stainless steel bowl with non-stick spray.
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8
Put 4 cups of flour and 1/4 teaspoon of baking powder in the bowl; mix slightly with a spoon, then pour the warmed buttermilk mixture into the flour mixture (this all can be done while the yeast is proofing).
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9
After the yeast is proofed pour into the flour and buttermilk mixture.
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10
Start kneading/mixing on low speed for about 1-2 minutes, adding more flour as needed to create a soft semi-sticky dough that holds around the kneader blade (don't add in too much flour, this will create a heavy bread/bun).
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11
Increase speed slightly, and continue to knead the dough for about 7-8 minutes.
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12
Remove the dough, and set on the counter, covered with a clean tea towel for 10 minutes.
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13
Grease a large bowl (I just use the same bowl that I mixed the dough in).
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14
After 10 minutes, knead the dough slightly by hand for about 20-30 seconds, the dough should come together nicely.
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15
Shape in a large ball and place in greased bowl.
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16
Cover bowl with a clean dry tea towel, and place in the preheated oven (that has been turned off!)
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17
for 60-70 minutes until doubled.
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18
Remove and punch down dough, then remove/transfer to a clean cutting board or counter.
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19
Cut dough into larger size round balls (about the size of a golf ball) and fit two balls in one mini loaf pan.
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20
Cover with a clean tea towel, and place back in oven to rise again for around 30 minutes.
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21
Remove from oven.
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22
Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
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23
Place the mini loaf pans in and bake for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until dark golden brown.
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24
Remove the bread immediately from pans.
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25
Delicious!
