Sugary Crusted Sweet Bread
Introduction:
There’s something undeniably comforting about freshly baked bread, especially when it comes with a delightful twist of sugar crust.
This sugary crusted sweet bread recipe offers a perfect balance of soft texture with a sweet, crunchy topping that makes it irresistible.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a newcomer, this recipe will guide you through the steps to achieve a loaf that not only looks impressive but tastes heavenly.
Ingredients:
1 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
2 teaspoons active dry yeast
1/3 cup sugar, plus extra for coating
2 large eggs, beaten
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/2 teaspoon salt
3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup butter, melted (for brushing)
Additional sugar for dusting
Instructions:
Yeast Mixture: In a large bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm milk. Add a teaspoon of sugar and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy, indicating that the yeast is active.
Prepare Dough: To the yeast mixture, add the beaten eggs, melted butter, salt, and the rest of the sugar. Gradually mix in the flour until the dough begins to form. It should be sticky but manageable.
Kneading: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes, or until smooth and elastic. Add a little more flour if the dough is too sticky.
First Rise: Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, turning once to coat the surface with oil. Cover with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Shape and Second Rise: Punch down the dough and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Shape into a loaf and place in a greased 9×5 inch loaf pan. Cover and let rise for another 30 minutes.
Preheat Oven and Prepare Topping: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the top of the risen dough with melted butter and generously sprinkle with sugar.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped.
Cooling: Remove from oven and let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Conclusion:
This sugary crusted sweet bread is a fantastic treat that pairs wonderfully with coffee or tea, making it a perfect choice for breakfast or as a snack.
The crunchy sugar topping adds a delightful texture that complements the soft, tender bread underneath.
Serve it warm to enjoy the full range of flavors and textures. Happy baking!
Notes:
Ensure your yeast is fresh to get a good rise from your dough.
The sugar crust can be enhanced by mixing in a little cinnamon or vanilla sugar for a flavor twist.