Sweet bread
Fluffy sweet bread with delicious cream
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Rising time: 1 hour
Baking time: 1 hour
Total: 2 hours 30 minutes
Number of servings: 4 sweet breads
Welcome to the wonderful world of sweet bread! These fluffy sweet breads, filled with rich walnut, cocoa, and biscuit filling, are not just a simple recipe; they are a true tradition that reminds us of special moments spent with loved ones. Throughout this detailed guide, I will provide you with all the necessary information to achieve a perfect sweet bread, with a light texture and a decadent filling.
Ingredients
For the dough:
- 1.800 kg flour
- 5 eggs (at room temperature)
- 60 g fresh yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 500 g sugar
- Zest of one orange
- Orange essence (1-2 drops)
- Vanilla sugar (1 packet)
- 2 tablespoons margarine (melted)
- 200 ml oil
- 900 ml warm water (approximately 37-40°C)
For the filling:
- 500 g biscuits (homemade or store-bought)
- 50 g cocoa
- 500 g ground walnuts
- Rum essence (1-2 drops)
- 250 g sugar
- 200 ml milk (for soaking)
- 100 g raisins (optional)
A Brief History of Sweet Bread
Sweet bread is a traditional dish found in many cultures, with a rich history tied to holidays and special events. It symbolizes joy and family unity, often prepared during festive occasions. Each region adds a personal touch regarding the filling and shape, but the essence remains the same: a fluffy dough with a flavorful filling.
Step by Step
1. Preparing the dough: In a large bowl, place the flour and make a well in the center. Here, add the eggs, crumbled yeast, salt, 2 tablespoons of sugar, and 2 tablespoons of warm water. Mix gently until the ingredients begin to combine.
2. Proofing the yeast: Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let it sit in a warm place for 15 minutes, until the mixture bubbles. This is a crucial step to ensure a fluffy sweet bread!
3. Adding ingredients: Once the yeast has proofed, add the remaining ingredients: melted margarine, orange zest, orange essence, vanilla sugar, and warm water. Mix well until a homogeneous dough forms.
4. Kneading: Now, it's time to knead! Gradually add the oil and continue kneading the dough for about 40 minutes. It may seem tiring, but the more you knead, the fluffier the sweet bread will become. Make sure the dough no longer sticks to the bowl at the end.
5. Let the dough rise: Cover the dough with a towel and let it rise for an hour in a warm place until it doubles in volume.
6. Preparing the filling: While the dough rises, prepare the filling. Crush the biscuits and walnuts, then mix them with cocoa, sugar, rum essence, and raisins. Soak the mixture with milk until you achieve a homogeneous composition, but not too soft.
7. Forming the sweet breads: After the dough has risen, divide it into two equal parts. Roll each part out on a floured surface into a rectangular sheet. Spread each sheet with the cocoa and biscuit filling, then roll tightly.
8. Placing in the pan: Place the rolls in a greased pan, making sure to position them vertically. Beat an egg with a little sugar and brush the surface of the sweet breads with this mixture. Let them rise for another 20 minutes.
9. Baking: Preheat the oven to 160°C and bake the sweet breads for about 1 hour. It is important to maintain a consistent temperature to achieve a perfect crust.
10. Cooling: When done, remove them from the pan and let them cool on one side. Brush them with a little oil to prevent drying out. Cover them with a clean towel.
Practical Tips
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for an even dough.
- You can add other ingredients to the filling, such as chocolate or dried fruits, to vary the flavors.
- If you want a less sweet bread, you can reduce the amount of sugar in the filling.
- Use warm milk to soak the biscuits and walnuts, which will contribute to a creamier filling.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why is it important to knead the dough for 40 minutes?
- Kneading develops the gluten, ensuring a fluffy and airy texture.
2. Can I use margarine instead of butter?
- Yes, but butter provides a richer flavor.
3. How do I know when the sweet breads are done?
- The sweet breads are done when they have a golden color and sound hollow when lightly tapped on the crust.
Serving and Pairings
Sweet breads are delicious served warm, alongside a cup of warm milk or fruit tea. You can also enjoy them with a portion of jam or honey for extra sweetness. They are also exceptional as a dessert at festive meals or on holidays.
So, enjoy the cooking process and the final result: fluffy sweet breads with a decadent filling that will surely impress anyone. With a little effort and a lot of love, you have all the ingredients to create a delicious memory! Enjoy your meal!
Ingredients: 1.800 kg flour 5 eggs 60 g yeast 1 teaspoon salt 500 g sugar orange peel orange essence vanilla sugar 2 tablespoons margarine 200 ml oil 900 g warm water filling 500 g biscuits 50 g cocoa 500 g ground walnuts rum essence 250 g sugar milk for soaking (200 ml) 100 g raisins
