Flowerpot Bread
Flowerpot bread offers a charming presentation with a soft, flavorful interior and a crispy brown crust, perfect for rustic gatherings or as a unique centerpiece.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Season a 6-inch pottery flowerpot by greasing it thoroughly.
- Place the greased pot into a 425°F oven for 30 minutes to season.
- Repeat the seasoning process to prevent sticking and seal the pot.
- Do not put water in the pot after it has been seasoned.
- Dissolve the yeast in warm water in a large mixer bowl.
- Blend in ground ginger and 1 tablespoon of sugar, then let stand in a warm place until bubbly, about 15 minutes.
- Stir in the remaining sugar, evaporated milk, salt, and salad oil.
- With the mixer on low speed, beat in 1 cup of flour at a time, beating very well after each addition.
- Beat in the last cup of flour with a heavy spoon.
- Add flour until the dough is stiff but too sticky to knead.
- Place the dough in the prepared flowerpot and let it rise until it is 1 1/2 inches over the top of the pot.
- Bake in a 350°F oven for 60 minutes until the top is very brown.
- Brush the top lightly with butter and let cool for 5 to 10 minutes.
- Loosen the crust around the edge before removing.
Tips & Substitutions
To ensure the best rise, make sure your yeast is fresh and dissolve it in water that's warm but not too hot. If you find the dough too sticky, use a little extra flour when shaping. For added flavor, consider incorporating herbs or spices, like rosemary or garlic powder, into the dough. This bread can also be shaped into rolls if you prefer smaller portions.
Serving Suggestions
This Flowerpot Bread is perfect for serving alongside soups and stews, as it soaks up flavors beautifully. It pairs wonderfully with Aunt Jennie'S Salad Dressing for a fresh side salad. For a more substantial meal, consider serving it with a hearty chili or as part of a vegetarian feast. Slice it warm and enjoy with butter or your favorite spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Flowerpot Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply place it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Flowerpot Bread contains roughly 786 calories, with 2g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 83g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1179mg per serving (51% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes, you can substitute instant yeast for active dry yeast. Use the same amount and mix it directly into the dry ingredients. The rising time may be slightly shorter, so keep an eye on the dough as it rises.
What can I do if my dough doesn't rise?
If your dough isn't rising, check the temperature of your environment; it should be warm, not hot. Ensure your yeast is active by testing it in warm water with a bit of sugar before starting the recipe. If the dough is too cold, let it sit in a warm spot, covered with a towel.
Can I add ingredients like cheese or olives to the bread?
Absolutely! Adding ingredients like shredded cheese, olives, or sun-dried tomatoes can enhance the flavor. Just be cautious not to overload the dough, as it might affect the rise. Add them in during the mixing process, ensuring even distribution.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).