Timeless Sweet Milk Bread with Candied Fruits

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Timeless Sweet Milk Bread with Candied Fruits

Timeless Sweet Milk Bread with Candied Fruits

Timeless Sweet Milk Bread with Candied Fruits

Table of Contents

Ingredients

Dough:

    • 200ml lukewarm milk
    • 1 tbsp (7g) active dry yeast
    • 1/4 cup (50g) sugar
    • 2 eggs
    • 2 tbsp butter (softened)
    • 550g all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp salt

Filling and Topping:

    • 2 tbsp butter (melted)
    • Dried candied fruits (as per preference)
  • 1 egg yolk + 1 tbsp milk (for egg wash)

Instructions

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

    1. Warm the milk to lukewarm temperature (approximately 38°C or 100°F). Ensure it is not too hot, as it could kill the yeast.
    2. In a bowl, combine the lukewarm milk, active dry yeast, and 1 tablespoon of the sugar. Mix gently and let it rest for 5–10 minutes. When the mixture is frothy, the yeast has been successfully activated.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

    1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, softened butter, remaining sugar, and the frothy yeast mixture.
    2. Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing as you go. Start by stirring with a wooden spoon, then transition to kneading the dough by hand or using a stand mixer with a dough hook.
    3. Knead the dough for 8–10 minutes until it is smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky but not sticky. If the dough feels too wet, add a tablespoon of flour at a time until the right consistency is reached.
See also  Baked Oatmeal with Fruits and Nuts

Step 3: First Proofing

  1. Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly greased bowl. Cover the bowl with a damp cloth or plastic wrap.
  2. Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free area for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.

Step 4: Incorporate the Candied Fruits

    1. Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release air.
    1. Roll out the dough into a large rectangle (approximately 1.5 cm thick).
    2. Brush the surface with melted butter and evenly sprinkle your desired amount of candied fruits.
    3. Roll the dough tightly into a log, tucking in the edges as you go.

Step 5: Shape and Second Proofing

  1. Place the rolled dough into a greased loaf pan or shape it into smaller rolls for individual servings.
  2. Cover again and let it proof for 30–45 minutes, or until it has puffed up significantly.
» MORE:  Decadent Cherry Chocolate Fudge: A Perfect Holiday Treat Ingredients For the Fudge Base 500g (17.6 oz) semi-sweet chocolate (55% cocoa solids), broken into small pieces 397g (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk 200g (7 oz) glacé cherries, chopped (plus 8 additional cherries for topping) 2.5 ml (½ tsp) almond extract Instructions Preparation Line a 20cm x 20cm (8-inch x 8-inch) baking tin with non-stick parchment paper, ensuring paper extends up the sides Chop glacé cherries, setting aside 8 pieces for decoration Break chocolate into small, uniform pieces for even melting Making the Fudge Create a double boiler by placing a heatproof bowl over a pan of simmering water, ensuring the bowl doesn’t touch the water Combine chocolate, condensed milk, almond extract, and chopped cherries (except reserved pieces) in the bowl Stir continuously until chocolate melts completely and mixture becomes smooth Pour mixture immediately into prepared tin Smooth surface with an offset spatula for a professional finish Decorate with reserved cherry pieces, pressing them lightly into the surface Refrigerate for minimum 2 hours until completely set Timing and Nutritional Information Prep Time: 15 minutes Cooking Time: 10 minutes Setting Time: 2 hours Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes Yield: 36 pieces Per Piece (approximately): Calories: 125 Protein: 1.5g Fat: 6g Carbohydrates: 16g Sugar: 14g Tips and Tricks Chop chocolate into uniform pieces for even melting Maintain water at a gentle simmer, not a rolling boil Use room temperature condensed milk for smoother blending Work quickly once chocolate is melted as mixture begins setting immediately Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water between cuts for clean edges Pat cherries dry before adding to prevent water content from affecting texture Variations and Substitutions Dark chocolate (70% cocoa) for a more intense flavor Milk chocolate for a sweeter version Dried cherries instead of glacé for less sweetness Kirsch liqueur (1 tablespoon) instead of almond extract Add 100g chopped nuts for additional texture White chocolate drizzle over the top for decoration Common FAQs Q: Why did my fudge turn grainy? A: This usually occurs from overheating. Maintain gentle heat and constant stirring for smooth results. Oatmeal and Pumpkin Seed Bread Recipe Q: Can I freeze this fudge? A: Yes, it freezes well for up to 3 months when wrapped properly in airtight containers. Q: Why isn’t my fudge setting properly? A: Ensure correct chocolate-to-condensed milk ratio and adequate refrigeration time. Carrot Nut Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Q: Can I use fresh cherries instead of glacé cherries? A: Fresh cherries contain too much moisture and will affect the fudge’s texture. Stick to glacé or dried cherries. Storage and Make-Ahead Tips Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator Keeps fresh for up to two weeks when refrigerated Layer pieces with wax paper to prevent sticking Bring to room temperature for 10 minutes before serving Can be frozen for up to 3 months Thaw overnight in refrigerator before serving Avoid storing at room temperature as texture will soften

Step 6: Bake the Bread

    1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
  1. Mix the egg yolk and milk for the egg wash, then gently brush it over the surface of the bread for a golden, shiny finish.
  2. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and emits a hollow sound when tapped on the bottom.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

    1. Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.
  1. Slice and serve warm with butter, jam, or simply enjoy it as is.

Why This Recipe Is Timeless

This sweet milk bread recipe stands the test of time due to its simplicity and versatility. The ingredients are pantry staples, yet they come together to create a luxurious and satisfying treat. The addition of candied fruits provides an element of surprise, blending a traditional recipe with a modern touch. Perfect for beginners and experienced bakers alike, this bread is a testament to the joys of home baking.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

    • Calories: 290 kcal
    • Protein: 7g
    • Fat: 6g
    • Carbohydrates: 50g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 12g

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