Portuguese Sweet Bread(A San Jose Specialty)
A soft, sweet Portuguese bread with a tender crumb and subtle sweetness, perfect for breakfast or snacks, appealing to those who enjoy rich, homemade baked goods.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a small bowl, sprinkle yeast and a pinch of sugar over warm water.
- Let stand 2 to 3 minutes; then stir to dissolve yeast; set aside for 5 to 6 minutes.
- In a deep mixing bowl, combine 1 cup sugar, 4 cups flour, and salt.
- Make a well in the center and pour in yeast mixture, milk, and 3 eggs.
- Stir until mixed and beat until well combined.
- Beat in melted butter and add 2 cups of flour, 1/4 cup at a time, until dough can be made into a soft ball.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use fresh yeast and ensure your warm water isn't too hot, as it can kill the yeast. If you're out of skim milk, whole milk or a non-dairy alternative can be used. To add flavor, consider incorporating spices like nutmeg or cinnamon into the dough. Also, ensure your flour is sifted to create a lighter texture in the bread.
Serving Suggestions
This sweet bread is delightful on its own or served with butter and jam for breakfast. It also pairs beautifully with Czechoslavakian Cheese Cake for a sweet treat. Consider serving alongside a warm beverage like coffee or tea. It can also be enjoyed as a dessert, especially when topped with a light glaze or frosting.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Portuguese sweet bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it in plastic wrap and freeze for up to a month. To reheat, simply slice and warm individual pieces in a toaster or oven until heated through, retaining its soft texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Portuguese Sweet Bread(A San Jose Specialty) contains roughly 1605 calories, with 29g protein, 264g carbohydrates, and 50g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (63% of the Daily Value), protein (58% of the Daily Value), and iron (50% 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 use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes, you can substitute instant yeast for active dry yeast. Use the same amount, but you can skip the step of dissolving it in water. Just mix it directly with the dry ingredients, and it will work perfectly in this recipe.
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, until it reaches a manageable consistency. Be careful not to overdo it, as too much flour can lead to a denser bread. Remember, the dough should be soft but not overly sticky.
Can I add ingredients like raisins or nuts to the dough?
Absolutely! Adding raisins, nuts, or even chocolate chips can enhance the flavor and texture of the sweet bread. Fold them into the dough after the initial mixing, ensuring they are evenly distributed before allowing the dough to rise.
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).