This traditional Italian sweet loaf is a comforting classic, especially popular during Columbus Day celebrations. Enriched with butter, eggs, and brown sugar, the dough yields a tender crumb with a subtle sweetness that isn’t overpowering. The result is a soft, pillowy bread with a beautiful golden crust. It’s wonderful served warm with a pat of butter, alongside coffee for breakfast, or as a sweet treat after dinner. The aroma of baking bread will fill your kitchen, making it a perfect centerpiece for family gatherings. Simple ingredients come together to create a nostalgic, homemade treat that feels luxurious yet approachable.
Columbus Day Italian Sweet Loaf
Description
This traditional Italian sweet loaf is a comforting classic, especially popular during Columbus Day celebrations. Enriched with butter, eggs, and brown sugar, the dough yields a tender crumb with a subtle sweetness that isn't overpowering. The result is a soft, pillowy bread with a beautiful golden crust. It&# 226;ÂÂs wonderful served warm with a pat of butter, alongside coffee for breakfast, or as a sweet treat after dinner. The aroma of baking bread will fill your kitchen, making it a perfect centerpiece for family gatherings. Simple ingredients come together to create a nostalgic, homemade treat that feels luxurious yet approachable.Ingredients
Directions
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In a large mixing bowl, dissolve the dry yeast and brown sugar in the warm water.
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Let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes until it becomes foamy and active.
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Stir in the melted butter, whole eggs, additional egg yolks, and salt until well combined.
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Gradually add the unbleached white flour, one cup at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition.
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Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface.
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Knead the dough for about 5 to 8 minutes, adding small amounts of flour if necessary, until it is smooth, elastic, and no longer sticky.
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Divide the dough into two equal halves.
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Flatten each half slightly and shape them into round loaves by tucking the edges underneath.
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Place the loaves on a greased baking sheet, spacing them apart.
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Cover the loaves loosely with aluminum foil or a clean kitchen towel.
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Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free place for 1 to 2 hours, or until doubled in size.
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Preheat the oven to 325ðF (165ðC).
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Brush the tops of the risen loaves with the remaining egg yolk mixture.
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Use a sharp knife to slash two diagonal cuts across the top of each loaf.
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Sprinkle the tops lightly with additional sugar.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the loaves are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
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Remove from the oven and let cool on a wire rack before slicing.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 2
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 3506.1kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 103.6g160%
- Saturated Fat 45.1g226%
- Cholesterol 2019.0mg673%
- Sodium 10815.5mg451%
- Total Carbohydrate 540.0g180%
- Dietary Fiber 20.5g82%
- Sugars 67.2g
- Protein 92.6g186%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.