This traditional Portuguese-style sweet bread is a comforting classic, characterized by its tender, slightly dense crumb and rich, buttery flavor. The dough comes together with simple pantry staples like flour, sugar, eggs, and yeast, resulting in a loaf that is perfect for slicing and buttering. The subtle sweetness pairs beautifully with morning coffee or serves as an elegant accompaniment to hearty soups and stews. The golden-brown crust, achieved through a simple egg wash and sugar sprinkle, adds a delightful textural contrast. Ideal for festive gatherings, religious celebrations, or a cozy weekend baking session, this bread captures the essence of homemade comfort. It keeps well for several days, allowing the flavors to meld further. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or toasted the next day, this sweet bread is a timeless treat that brings warmth and nostalgia to any table.
Sweet Bread, Portuguese
Description
This traditional Portuguese-style sweet bread is a comforting classic, characterized by its tender, slightly dense crumb and rich, buttery flavor. The dough comes together with simple pantry staples like flour, sugar, eggs, and yeast, resulting in a loaf that is perfect for slicing and buttering. The subtle sweetness pairs beautifully with morning coffee or serves as an elegant accompaniment to hearty soups and stews. The golden-brown crust, achieved through a simple egg wash and sugar sprinkle, adds a delightful textural contrast. Ideal for festive gatherings, religious celebrations, or a cozy weekend baking session, this bread captures the essence of homemade comfort. It keeps well for several days, allowing the flavors to meld further. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or toasted the next day, this sweet bread is a timeless treat that brings warmth and nostalgia to any table.Ingredients
Directions
-
In a large bowl, dissolve the yeast in the warm water. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
-
Stir in the cooled milk, 3/4 cup sugar, salt, 3 eggs, melted margarine, and 3 cups of flour.
-
Beat the mixture until it is smooth and well combined.
-
Gradually stir in the remaining flour, adding up to an additional cup if needed, until you have an easily manageable dough.
-
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
-
Place the dough in a greased bowl, turning to coat the top. Cover and let rise for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, or until doubled in size.
-
Punch down the dough and divide it into two equal portions.
-
Shape each portion into a round, slightly flat loaf.
-
Place each loaf into a greased 9x5 inch round or loaf pan.
-
Cover the loaves and let them rise again until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
-
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).
-
Beat the remaining egg slightly and brush it over the tops of the loaves.
-
Sprinkle the tops with the remaining 1 teaspoon of sugar.
-
Bake until the loaves are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped, about 35-45 minutes.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 2
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 2747.4kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 18.2g28%
- Saturated Fat 5.3g27%
- Cholesterol 375.4mg126%
- Sodium 9934.9mg414%
- Total Carbohydrate 555.6g186%
- Dietary Fiber 16.2g65%
- Sugars 101.4g
- Protein 77.1g155%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Ensure the milk is cooled to lukewarm before adding to the yeast mixture to avoid killing the yeast.
Margarine can be substituted with unsalted butter for a richer flavor.
If the dough feels too sticky during kneading, add flour one tablespoon at a time. If it feels too dry, add water or milk one teaspoon at a time.
To store, wrap cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It can be kept at room temperature for up to 3 days, or frozen for up to 3 months.
For a softer crust, cover the loaves loosely with foil if they begin to brown too quickly during baking.
