Sweet Bread
Sweet bread is a delightful baked good that brings warmth and comfort to any table. Whether enjoyed with a cup of coffee or as a dessert, its soft texture and sweet flavor make it a favorite among many. This recipe will guide you through the process of making your own sweet bread from scratch, ensuring that every bite is as delicious as the last.
Ingredients
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup sugar
– 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
– 1 cup warm milk
– ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– ½ tsp salt
– Optional: 1 cup mixed berries (fresh or frozen)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 12 servings. Preparation time is about 20 minutes, with a cooking time of 30-35 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Per serving (1 slice): 200 calories, 6g fat, 32g carbohydrates, 3g protein, 14g sugar. This nutritional information is based on a single serving of sweet bread.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. In a mixing bowl, combine warm milk and yeast; let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, eggs, and vanilla to the yeast mixture.
4. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until a dough forms.
5. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth.
6. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
7. Punch down the dough and fold in any optional berries.
8. Shape the dough into a loaf and place it in a greased loaf pan.
9. Let it rise again for about 30 minutes.
10. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option. Additionally, honey can replace sugar for a natural sweetness. Nut milk can be used instead of regular milk for a dairy-free version.
Serving and Pairings
Sweet bread pairs wonderfully with butter, cream cheese, or fruit spreads. It can also be served alongside coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon snack.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover sweet bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to a week. You can freeze slices for up to 3 months; just thaw and reheat in the oven or microwave when ready to serve.
Cooking Mistakes
- Using cold milk instead of warm can affect yeast activation.
- Not kneading the dough enough may result in a dense texture.
- Overbaking can lead to dry bread; keep an eye on it!
- Skipping the second rise can affect the bread’s fluffiness.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately can alter the outcome.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh yeast for the best results.
- Let the bread cool completely before slicing.
- Experiment with different add-ins like nuts or chocolate chips.
- Brush the top with melted butter for extra flavor.
FAQs
What is sweet bread?
Sweet bread is a type of bread enriched with sugar, butter, and eggs, making it soft and sweet. It’s often enjoyed as a dessert or breakfast item.
Can I make sweet bread without eggs?
Yes, you can use flaxseed meal or applesauce as an egg substitute in sweet bread recipes.
How should I store sweet bread?
Sweet bread should be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for a few days or refrigerated for longer shelf life.
What can I add to sweet bread for flavor?
You can add vanilla, almond extract, or various spices like cinnamon to enhance the flavor of sweet bread.
Can sweet bread be frozen?
Absolutely! Sweet bread can be frozen for up to three months. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing.
Conclusion
Sweet bread is a versatile and delightful treat that can brighten any occasion. With its soft texture and sweet flavor, this homemade version is sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy the process of baking and savor the delicious results!
Sweet Bread
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 packet 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm milk
- ½ cup unsalted butter melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp salt
- Optional: 1 cup mixed berries fresh or frozen
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine warm milk and yeast; let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
- Add melted butter, eggs, and vanilla to the yeast mixture.
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
- Punch down the dough and fold in any optional berries.
- Shape the dough into a loaf and place it in a greased loaf pan.
- Let it rise again for about 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown.