Here’s a simple and delicious homemade sweet bread recipe for you:
Ingredients:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 cup milk
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Prepare the Yeast Mixture:
- Warm the milk and water together until they are lukewarm (about 110°F/45°C).
- Stir in the active dry yeast and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 1/2 cups of the flour, sugar, and salt. Mix well.
- Combine Wet Ingredients:
- Melt the butter and add it to the yeast mixture. Add the egg and vanilla extract. Mix well.
- Form the Dough:
- Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms.
- Add the remaining flour, a little at a time, until the dough is no longer sticky.
- Knead the Dough:
- Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until it is smooth and elastic.
- First Rise:
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.
- Shape the Dough:
- Punch down the dough to release the air. Shape it into a loaf or desired shapes.
- Second Rise:
- Place the shaped dough into a greased loaf pan or on a baking sheet. Cover and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes until it has doubled in size again.
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake:
- Bake the bread for about 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped.
- Cool:
- Allow the bread to cool in the pan for a few minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Optional:
- For a richer flavor, you can add raisins, dried fruits, or nuts to the dough before the first rise.
- You can also brush the top of the bread with melted butter or an egg wash before baking for a shiny crust.
Enjoy your homemade sweet bread!