Basler Brot - Swiss Almond Bread

Ingredients

• 500g (4 cups) all-purpose flour 500g (4 cups) all-purpose flour
• 100g (1 cup) ground almonds 100g (1 cup) ground almonds
• 10g (2 tsp) active dry yeast 10g (2 tsp) active dry yeast
• 10g (2 tsp) salt 10g (2 tsp) salt
• 50g (1/4 cup) granulated sugar 50g (1/4 cup) granulated sugar
• 300ml (1 1/4 cups) warm milk 300ml (1 1/4 cups) warm milk
• 50g (1/4 cup) unsalted butter, melted 50g (1/4 cup) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 egg, beaten 1 egg, beaten
• Sliced almonds, for topping Sliced almonds, for topping

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 10g, 3g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 48g, 8g
• Protein: 9g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 1.2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, ground almonds, yeast, salt, and sugar.
2. 2.
   Make a well in the center and pour in the warm milk, melted butter, and beaten egg.
3. 3.
   Mix the ingredients together until a dough forms.
4. 4.
   Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
5. 5.
   Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. 6.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
7. 7.
   Punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf.
8. 8.
   Place the loaf on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
9. 9.
   Brush the top of the loaf with water and sprinkle with sliced almonds.
10. 10.
    Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
11. 11.
    Remove from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Almonds — Toast the sliced almonds before topping the bread for an extra nutty flavor and enhanced crunch.

Tips & Tricks

• For a sweeter version, you can add a tablespoon of honey to the dough.
• Serve the Basler Brot warm with a spread of butter or cream cheese for a delightful breakfast or snack.
• This bread is best enjoyed within a day or two of baking. To keep it fresh, store it in an airtight container.

Serving advice

Slice the Basler Brot into thick slices and serve it alongside a cup of hot coffee or tea. It is also delicious when served with Swiss cheese or fruit preserves.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, dust the sliced Basler Brot with powdered sugar before serving. This adds a touch of elegance and highlights the almond topping.