Holiday Coffee
A sweet, cardamom‑infused loaf with a buttery, coffee‑flavored crumb—ideal for holiday brunches or cozy afternoons, offering warm spice and tender texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sprinkle yeast and a pinch of sugar over warm water in a measuring cup.
- Stir.
- Let stand just until foamy, 2 to 3 minutes.
- Meanwhile, whisk together 2 cups flour, 1/2 cup sugar, salt and cardamom in a large bowl.
- With a pastry blender or two knives, cut butter into the flour mixture until coarse crumbs form.
- Whisk together lukewarm milk, 2 eggs and 1 egg yolk in a medium bowl until blended; whisk in the dry ingredients and knead the dough.
- Let the dough rise.
- Press one piece of dough into a 16 x 9 inch rectangle onto a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Cut twelve 1‑inch strips of dough along each side of the filling.
- Gently stretch the strips across the filling, alternating side to side and pressing gently; roll two 16‑inch‑long ropes of dough.
- Join one end of the ropes, twist together, and arrange down the center of the loaf.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, ensure your water temperature is accurate; too hot can kill the yeast. If you don't have cardamom, try cinnamon as a substitute for a different flavor profile. Kneading the dough well is crucial for achieving the right texture. You can also use pre-made dough if you're short on time, but it might not yield the same taste as this homemade version.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Holiday Coffee warm, perhaps alongside a cup of hot chocolate or spiced tea for a cozy treat. It pairs beautifully with Better Egg Custard for a delightful brunch. Consider adding fresh fruit or a light salad on the side to balance the richness of the coffee. Enjoy it as a festive breakfast or as a sweet afternoon snack.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Holiday Coffee in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and freezing it for up to a month. To reheat, simply place slices in a toaster or oven until warmed through, which will help regain some of the original texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Holiday Coffee contains roughly 1698 calories, with 29g protein, 210g carbohydrates, and 84g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (64% of the Daily Value), protein (59% of the Daily Value), and calcium (54% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2394mg per serving (104% 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 rapid-rise yeast?
Yes, you can use instant yeast instead of rapid-rise yeast. Just add it directly to the dry ingredients without needing to activate it in water. However, the rising times may differ slightly, so keep an eye on the dough as it rises to ensure it doubles in size.
What can I use instead of milk in this recipe?
If you're looking for a dairy-free option, you can substitute the milk with almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk. Make sure to choose an unsweetened variety to prevent altering the flavor of the dough. This change makes the recipe suitable for various dietary preferences, including vegetarian recipes.
How can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can prepare the dough and let it rise, then shape it and refrigerate it overnight. When you're ready to bake, simply let it come to room temperature and rise again before baking. This is an excellent way to streamline your baking process during busy holiday preparations.
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).