Polish Sweet Bread
A rich, fragrant Polish sweet bread with raisins, tender crumb, and a hint of citrus rind, perfect for breakfast, holidays, or special occasions enjoyed by all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soften yeast in lukewarm water.
- Scald milk and let it cool to lukewarm.
- Add shortening, sugar, and salt to the milk mixture; cool to lukewarm.
- Add flour gradually to make a thin batter.
- Add yeast, beaten eggs, and lemon or orange rind; beat well.
- Add enough remaining flour to make a soft dough.
- Turn the dough onto a lightly floured board and knead until satiny.
- Form into a ball, place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise until doubled in size.
- Divide the dough into four loaves and place on baking sheets.
- Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 40 minutes.
- Remove from oven, cool slightly, then serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, ensure that your yeast is fresh and active by checking the expiration date. If you don't have butter, you can substitute with margarine or a mixture of half-and-half. Consider adding spices like nutmeg or cardamom for an extra flavor boost. If you prefer, you can use half whole wheat flour for a healthier version while maintaining a soft texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Polish Sweet Bread warm or at room temperature, perhaps with a spread of Savory Butter for a delightful contrast. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee. For a festive touch, consider serving it alongside Russian Eyeball or Walnut Tarts, creating a beautiful dessert spread for gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, allow the bread to cool completely before wrapping it 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. To reheat, wrap in foil and warm in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Polish Sweet Bread contains roughly 2969 calories, with 61g protein, 530g carbohydrates, and 68g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (218% of the Daily Value), calcium (154% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (129% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 make this recipe without eggs?
Yes, you can replace the eggs with a flaxseed meal mixture or commercial egg replacer for a vegan option. Use 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water for each egg. This may slightly alter the texture but will still yield a delicious bread.
How can I incorporate different flavors into the bread?
You can experiment with adding dried fruits, nuts, or spices to the dough. For example, try adding chopped walnuts or dates for a twist. A splash of vanilla extract or almond extract can also enhance the flavor profile. Just be mindful of the total liquid content to maintain the dough consistency.
What is the best way to knead the dough?
Knead the dough on a floured surface using the heel of your hand, pushing it away from you, then folding it back over itself. Rotate the dough a quarter turn after each push. Knead until the dough is smooth and elastic, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes. If it feels sticky, sprinkle a little flour as needed.
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).