Gatah(Armenian Sweet Bread)
Gatah is a traditional Armenian sweet bread with a soft, fluffy texture and subtly sweet flavor, perfect for celebrations or as a delightful treat with tea.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the flour, sugar, salt, and yeast in a large bowl.
- Heat the butter, Crisco, and milk until warm, then add to the dry ingredients.
- Blend on medium speed for 2 minutes.
- Add 1/2 cup of flour or enough to make a thick batter.
- Add the eggs and beat for an additional 2 minutes.
- Stir in 3 more cups of flour and knead by hand for a few minutes.
- Let the dough rise for 2 hours.
- Roll out the dough to about 1/2 to 3/4-inch thickness.
- Cut the dough into 2-inch pieces and brush tops with egg yolk and 3 drops of oil.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 12 to 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using whole milk instead of low-fat milk. If you prefer a dairy-free option, substitute the butter and milk with plant-based alternatives. Make sure your yeast is fresh for the best rise, and adjust the flour if needed to achieve a thick batter consistency. Kneading the dough well helps develop gluten, giving the bread a better texture.
Serving Suggestions
Gatah is delightful on its own but pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. For a special treat, serve it alongside a dollop of cream or yogurt. It also complements sweet dips like Teaser Dip For Chips, making it a versatile addition to brunch or dessert tables. Consider garnishing with powdered sugar for an elegant finish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Gatah in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, wrap individual pieces in foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or microwave for a few seconds until just warm.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Gatah(Armenian Sweet Bread) contains roughly 388 calories, with 7g protein, 42g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is a good source of iron (15% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (14% of the Daily Value), and protein (13% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 899mg per serving (39% 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 use instant yeast in place of active dry yeast. Simply use the same amount and mix it directly with the dry ingredients without proofing it first. This can save time and still yield a great rise in your Gatah.
What can I do if my dough doesn't rise properly?
If your dough doesn't rise, it may be due to inactive yeast or a cold environment. Ensure your yeast is fresh and try placing the dough in a warm, draft-free area for better results. You can also try adding a bit of sugar to the warm milk to help activate the yeast.
Can I add fillings to the Gatah?
Absolutely! You can fill the Gatah with a variety of options such as nuts, dried fruits, or even chocolate chips before baking. Just make sure to distribute the filling evenly and seal the dough properly to prevent any leaks during baking.
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).