Saffron Tea Bread
A fragrant and moist tea bread infused with saffron and lemon, perfect for teatime or brunch, offering a delightful blend of floral and citrus flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine sugar, shortening, and ground saffron; beat well.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating after each addition.
- In a separate bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture alternately with milk, mixing well.
- Stir in lemon juice and grated lemon rind.
- Pour batter into a greased 9 x 5 x 3-inch loaf pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 55 to 60 minutes until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting half the shortening with unsalted butter. If you can't find saffron, turmeric can provide a similar color, though the flavor will differ. Ensure you beat the sugar and shortening thoroughly for a light texture. You can also experiment with adding nuts or dried fruits to the batter for added texture and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Saffron Tea Bread is delightful served with a cup of tea or coffee. It pairs beautifully with some cream cheese spread or a light lemon glaze drizzled on top. Consider serving it alongside a fresh fruit salad for a refreshing contrast. It also complements well with a slice of Bonnie'S Butter Cake for a sweet treat.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Saffron Tea Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, slice the bread and warm it in a toaster or microwave for a few seconds for a fresh taste.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Saffron Tea Bread contains roughly 394 calories, with 5g protein, 57g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 903mg per serving (39% 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?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend if needed. However, the texture may vary, so ensure the blend contains a binding agent like xanthan gum for best results.
Is there a way to make this recipe vegan?
You can substitute the eggs with flaxseed meal or applesauce. Use a plant-based shortening and non-dairy milk to make this Saffron Tea Bread vegan-friendly while still keeping it moist and delicious.
How do I know when the bread is done baking?
To check if the bread is done, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached, it's ready. If there's wet batter on the toothpick, it needs more time in the oven.
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).