Are you craving a warm, comforting treat that's surprisingly simple to make? Look no further! This sweet bun bread recipe is the perfect answer for busy weeknights or a relaxing weekend baking session. It's a delicious and easy recipe that's sure to become a family favorite. This recipe is perfect for beginner bakers looking for quick dinner ideas or experienced cooks searching for the best recipes. Get ready to enjoy the aroma of freshly baked bread filled with delightful sweetness!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup warm milk (105-115°F)
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 ½ - 4 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup raisins (optional, but highly recommended!)
- ¼ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In a large bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and granulated sugar. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy. This ensures your yeast is active and ready to work its magic, resulting in a light and fluffy bread.
Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients
Whisk in the egg and melted butter until well combined. The melted butter adds richness and moisture to the bread, leading to a softer texture.
Step 3: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the flour and salt to the wet ingredients, mixing with a wooden spoon or your hands until a soft dough forms. If using raisins and nuts, add them now and mix gently to distribute evenly.
Step 4: Knead the Dough
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic. Kneading develops the gluten in the flour, resulting in a better texture. If you're a beginner, don't worry about perfection – a little kneading goes a long way.
Step 5: First Rise
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size. A warm oven (turned off) is a great place for this!
Step 6: Shape and Second Rise
Punch down the dough to release the air. Shape the dough into a loaf or individual buns. Place the shaped dough in a greased 9x5 inch loaf pan or on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover loosely with plastic wrap and let rise for another 30-45 minutes.
Step 7: Bake
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 200°F (93°C). Use a toothpick to check for doneness; if it comes out clean, it's ready.
Step 8: Cool and Enjoy!
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar (optional) and slice to enjoy your delicious homemade sweet bun bread!
Cooking Tips:
- For a richer flavor, use whole milk instead of regular milk.
- Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for extra warmth.
- Feel free to experiment with different dried fruits and nuts. Cranberries, apricots, and chopped chocolate chips all work well.
- If your dough seems too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time.
Variations:
- Cinnamon Swirl Bun Bread: Add a cinnamon-sugar mixture to the dough before the second rise for a delightful twist.
- Glazed Sweet Bun Bread: Brush the baked bread with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk or lemon juice.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the size of your loaf and the ingredients used, but a general estimate per slice is:
- Calories: 200-250
- Fat: 8-10g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
- Protein: 5-7g
This sweet bun bread recipe is a perfect example of easy recipes and healthy meals that are easy to prepare. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, this homemade cooking experience will undoubtedly impress your family and friends. Enjoy this delicious dish!