Portuguese Sweet Bread Pao Doce
Indulge in the rich, buttery flavors of *Portuguese Sweet Bread (Pão Doce)*, a traditional treat that’s delightfully soft, slightly sweet, and beautifully golden. Infused with bright citrus notes from a combination of orange and lemon zest, this bread offers a subtle aromatic twist that sets it apart. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as an afternoon snack, its pillowy texture pairs wonderfully with a pat of butter or a dollop of jam. Made with simple pantry staples like flour, sugar, and eggs, and elevated with a touch of vanilla, this recipe is approachable for bakers of all levels. The egg wash creates a stunning golden crust, while the slow rise ensures a light, airy loaf that’s worth every minute of preparation. Serve warm or toasted, and experience an authentic taste of Portugal’s comforting baking tradition!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 5 cups All-purpose flour
- 0.75 cup Granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 2.25 teaspoons Active dry yeast
- 0.75 cup Warm milk (110°F/43°C)
- 6 tablespoons Unsalted butter (melted)
- 3 Large eggs
- 1 tablespoon Orange zest
- 1 teaspoon Lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
- 1 Egg yolk (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon Water (for egg wash)
Instructions
In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
In another bowl, beat the eggs and mix in the melted butter, orange zest, lemon zest, and vanilla extract.
Pour the yeast mixture and egg mixture into the dry ingredients. Mix with a wooden spoon or your hands until a dough begins to form.
Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes, or until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1 1/2 to 2 hours, or until doubled in size.
Punch down the dough and shape it into a round loaf. Place the loaf on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Cover the loaf with the kitchen towel and let it rise again for about 30-40 minutes, or until slightly puffy.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolk and water to make an egg wash. Brush the top of the loaf with the egg wash to create a golden crust.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Let the bread cool on a wire rack before slicing and enjoying.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
3905 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 100.9 g | 129% | |
| Saturated Fat | 54.7 g | 274% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 943 mg | 314% | |
| Sodium | 2266 mg | 98% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 641.4 g | 233% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 19.2 g | 69% | |
| Total Sugars | 163.4 g | ||
| Protein | 94.5 g | 189% | |
| Vitamin D | 6.8 mcg | 34% | |
| Calcium | 414 mg | 32% | |
| Iron | 26.6 mg | 148% | |
| Potassium | 1150 mg | 24% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
