Unleavened Bread for Communion

Name: Unleavened Bread for Communion
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 8 servings
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour (spooned and levelled); 1/2 teaspoon salt; 2/3 cup water (room temperature); 2 tablespoons olive oil

25 min 8 servings Easy

All Recipes

Simple and traditional recipe for unleavened bread used in communion services, made with a few basic ingredients.

Prep

10 min

Cook

15 min

Total

25 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Unleavened bread is a traditional element used in many religious ceremonies, including communion. This simple recipe requires only a few basic ingredients and results in a soft, slightly chewy bread perfect for breaking and sharing. Whether you're preparing for a small gathering or a larger service, this bread can be made in advance and stored until needed. This version focuses on maintaining the bread's purity and simplicity, reflecting its historical and religious significance. The absence of leavening agents like yeast keeps the bread flat, aligning with the symbolic meaning of unleavened bread in various traditions.

Instructions

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Pro tip: Parchment paper helps prevent the bread from sticking and makes cleanup easier.

Mix dry ingredients

In a large bowl, mix 2 cups of all-purpose flour and 1/2 teaspoon of salt.

Add wet ingredients

Add 2/3 cup of water and 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the dry ingredients. Stir until a dough forms.

Pro tip: Use your hands to bring the dough together if needed.

Knead the dough

Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 2-3 minutes until smooth.

Pro tip: Don't over-knead; the dough should be soft and pliable.

Roll out the dough

Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball, then flatten into a thin disc about 12 cm (5 inches) in diameter.

Pro tip: Use a rolling pin for even thickness.

Score and bake

Place the discs on the prepared baking sheet. Score lightly with a knife. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes until lightly golden.

Pro tip: Watch closely to avoid over-baking, which can make the bread too hard.

Cool before serving

Remove from the oven and let cool on a wire rack. Serve once cooled.

Pro tip: Cooling on a wire rack prevents moisture from accumulating underneath.

💡

Tips & Tricks

Use parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Avoid over-baking to keep the bread soft.
Score the dough before baking for easy breaking.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is unleavened bread for communion?

Unleavened bread is used in communion to symbolize purity and is made without yeast, keeping it flat and simple.

How long does unleavened bread last?

Unleavened bread can last for 1-2 days at room temperature in an airtight container or up to 3 months in the freezer.

Can I make unleavened bread ahead of time?

Yes, you can make unleavened bread a day ahead and store it in an airtight container. For longer storage, freeze it.

What ingredients are in unleavened bread?

Unleavened bread typically includes flour, salt, water, and olive oil. It does not contain yeast or leavening agents.

How many calories are in unleavened bread?

Each serving of unleavened bread contains approximately 150 calories.

Serving Suggestions

Unleavened bread is best served fresh, but it can be made a day ahead and stored in an airtight container. If you're preparing for a larger group, simply double or triple the recipe as needed. Pair it with grape juice or wine during communion or enjoy it as a simple accompaniment to meals. For longer storage, freeze the cooled bread in a resealable bag and thaw at room temperature before serving. This bread also pairs well with dips and spreads if you're looking for a simple snack.

Nutrition per serving

150

Calories

Protein

Fat

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