Sweet Bread Recipe: A Delightful Treat for Any Occasion
Sweet bread, with its soft texture and delightful sweetness, is a beloved treat enjoyed across cultures. This recipe will guide you through creating a wonderfully delicious sweet bread perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack. Whether you're a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is easy to follow and yields fantastic results.
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe provides a foundation; feel free to adjust sweetness and add-ins to your liking!
- For the Dough:
- 1 cup warm milk (105-115°F)
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 4-4 ½ cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- For the Glaze (Optional):
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-4 tablespoons milk or cream
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Activate the Yeast:
- In a large bowl, combine the warm milk, yeast, and sugar. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy. This confirms your yeast is active and ready to work its magic!
2. Combine Wet Ingredients:
- Add the egg and melted butter to the yeast mixture. Whisk until well combined.
3. Incorporate Dry Ingredients:
- Gradually add the flour and salt to the wet ingredients, mixing with a wooden spoon or spatula until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead the Dough:
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, or until smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time.
5. First Rise (Bulk Fermentation):
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 1-1 ½ hours, or until doubled in size.
6. Shape and Second Rise (Proofing):
- Gently punch down the dough to release the air. Shape the dough into a loaf and place it in a greased 9x5 inch loaf pan. Cover the pan with plastic wrap and let rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until almost doubled.
7. Bake to Perfection:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the bread for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Cool and Glaze (Optional):
- Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. While still warm, brush with the optional glaze made by whisking together the powdered sugar, milk (or cream), and vanilla extract.
Tips for Sweet Bread Success:
- Yeast Quality: Using fresh yeast is crucial for a successful rise.
- Warmth is Key: Ensure your milk is the correct temperature for yeast activation.
- Don't Overknead: Overkneading can result in a tough bread.
- Proper Rising Time: Allow ample time for both rises.
- Oven Temperature: Maintain consistent oven temperature for even baking.
Variations and Add-ins:
- Raisins: Add ½ cup of raisins to the dough during the kneading process.
- Cinnamon: Incorporate 1-2 teaspoons of cinnamon for a warm, spiced flavor.
- Nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans add a delightful crunch.
- Citrus Zest: Lemon or orange zest brightens the flavor profile.
This sweet bread recipe is your starting point for baking deliciousness. Experiment with different flavors and techniques to create your signature sweet bread masterpiece! Enjoy!
