Portuguese Sweet Bread Recipe

portuguese sweet bread recipe

Portuguese sweet bread, known as “pão doce” in Portuguese, is a traditional and beloved treat that is perfect for breakfast or as a snack with a cup of coffee. This sweet bread is soft, slightly sweet, and has a hint of citrus flavor, making it a delightful addition to any meal.

To make this delicious Portuguese sweet bread at home, you will need a few simple ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. Follow the easy steps below to create a loaf of this delectable bread that will transport you to the streets of Lisbon.

Ingredients:

– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 2 eggs
– Zest of 1 orange
– 1 packet active dry yeast

Instructions Step by Step:

1. In a large bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and a pinch of sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
2. Add the flour, sugar, salt, melted butter, milk, eggs, and orange zest to the bowl with the yeast mixture.
3. Mix everything together until a dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours until doubled in size.
6. Punch down the dough and shape it into a round loaf.
7. Place the dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Cover the dough again and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
9. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
10. Bake the bread for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
11. Let the bread cool before slicing and serving.

Tips:

For a twist on the traditional recipe, you can add raisins or nuts to the dough before baking. This will add extra flavor and texture to your sweet bread.
To store your Portuguese sweet bread, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the bread for longer storage.
Serve slices of this sweet bread with butter or jam for a delicious breakfast or snack option that the whole family will love.

In conclusion, this Portuguese sweet bread recipe is a simple and delightful treat that you can easily make at home. With just a few basic ingredients and some patience for the dough to rise, you can enjoy a taste of Portugal in your own kitchen. Give this recipe a try and savor the delicious flavors of this beloved bread.