Portuguese Sweet Bread
Portuguese Sweet Bread offers a rich, buttery flavor with a tender crumb and a hint of anise, perfect for breakfast or tea time. Its golden crust and soft interior make it a delightful treat for bread lovers seeking a traditional, aromatic bread with a slightly sweet taste and a satisfying texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Beat 6 eggs and reserve about 1 tablespoon to brush on top of the bread.
- Add 1 cup sugar and 1 1/2 teaspoons salt to the eggs and mix well.
- Pour this mixture into a well made in 7 to 8 cups of bread flour.
- Melt 1/4 pound butter in 3/4 cup warm milk.
- Dissolve 2 yeast cakes or packages in 1/4 cup water.
- Mix the milk, butter, and yeast mixture into the flour and egg mixture.
- Add anise if desired, then knead the dough for 15 minutes until quite dry and elastic.
- Add more warm milk or flour as needed to achieve the right consistency.
- Let the dough rise twice, then form into 2 loaves in greased cake pans.
- When the loaves have doubled in size, slit the top with a sharp knife.
- Brush the tops with the reserved beaten eggs.
- Bake in a slow oven at 300° to 350°F for about 30 minutes until the bread sounds hollow when tapped.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your Portuguese Sweet Bread, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a pinch of nutmeg along with the anise. If you don't have anise, you can substitute with fennel seeds for a similar licorice flavor. Ensure your yeast is fresh for the best rise, and knead until the dough is smooth for optimal texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Portuguese Sweet Bread warm or toasted, spread with butter or jam for breakfast. It pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. For a delightful dessert, consider serving slices alongside Flan(Egg Custard - Spain) or a fruit salad such as Pineapple And Apricot Salad for a refreshing contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Portuguese Sweet Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and freeze it for up to three months. To reheat, thaw at room temperature and warm in a low oven for a few minutes to revive its softness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Portuguese Sweet Bread contains roughly 666 calories, with 17g protein, 117g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (52% of the Daily Value), protein (35% of the Daily Value), and calcium (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1002mg per serving (44% 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 whole wheat flour instead of bread flour?
While you can substitute whole wheat flour, it may result in a denser texture. To maintain the bread's lightness, consider using a mix of all-purpose and whole wheat flour, or add vital wheat gluten to help with the rise.
What can I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough is too sticky, gradually add more flour, a tablespoon at a time, while kneading until it reaches the desired consistency. Ensure you're measuring your flour accurately, as too much liquid in the mixture can also contribute to stickiness.
How can I tell when the bread is fully baked?
To check if your Portuguese Sweet Bread is fully baked, tap the bottom of the loaf gently; it should sound hollow. Additionally, the top should be golden brown. If you're unsure, use a toothpick to check for doneness; it should come out clean.
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).