Portuguese Sweet Bread (Pao Doce)(Makes 5 Large Round Loaves)
Portuguese Sweet Bread (Pao Doce) is a rich, slightly sweet bread with a tender crumb and golden crust, perfect for breakfast or special occasions. Its aromatic flavor from eggs, butter, and lemon extract makes it a delightful treat for bread lovers and those seeking a traditional, indulgent pastry.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Bring the milk to a boil, then dissolve the yeast in the warm water.
- In a large bowl, sift together the flour, salt, and sugar.
- Add the butter to the dry ingredients and mix well.
- Add the beaten eggs, lemon extract, and the yeast mixture, then mix well.
- Knead the dough for 20 minutes, gradually adding milk as needed, until no dough sticks to your hands.
- Let the dough rise in a pan until it doubles in size.
- Punch down the dough, then shape into 5 round balls and place each in a greased pan.
- Let the shaped dough rise until it doubles in size.
- Brush the tops with the beaten egg.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for one hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using whole milk instead of regular milk. If you're short on time, you can substitute the yeast with instant yeast, which doesn't require proofing. Ensure your water is lukewarm, as too hot can kill the yeast. Knead until the dough is smooth; this is crucial for texture. If you want a sweeter bread, add more sugar to taste.
Serving Suggestions
Portuguese Sweet Bread is delightful on its own or served with butter and jam for breakfast. It pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. You can also use it for French toast or as a base for a decadent dessert like bread pudding. For a unique twist, try it alongside Stadium Spinach Dip for a savory-sweet experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover sweet bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap the loaves tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months. To reheat, thaw at room temperature and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes for a fresh taste.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Portuguese Sweet Bread (Pao Doce)(Makes 5 Large Round Loaves) contains roughly 1406 calories, with 31g protein, 274g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (85% of the Daily Value), protein (63% of the Daily Value), and calcium (53% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2376mg per serving (103% 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 a different type of flour for this recipe?
You can experiment with bread flour for a chewier texture or whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor. However, keep in mind that whole wheat may require additional liquid due to its higher absorbency. Adjust the amount of liquid accordingly if you switch flours.
How can I tell when the bread is done baking?
The bread is done when it is golden brown on top and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. Additionally, using a thermometer, the internal temperature should reach 190°F (88°C). Allow it to cool before slicing to maintain its structure.
Can I add flavors or mix-ins to the dough?
Absolutely! You can incorporate dried fruits like raisins or cranberries, or even nuts for added texture. For a citrusy twist, consider adding orange zest along with the lemon extract. Just be mindful of the overall moisture content to keep the dough balanced.
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).