Lithuanian Sweet Bread

Ingredients

While the original Portuguese Sweet Bread is typically made with ingredients like eggs, milk, and butter, this Lithuanian adaptation incorporates Lithuanian flavors and ingredients. The Lithuanian Sweet Bread recipe includes the addition of Lithuanian honey, which adds a distinct sweetness and depth of flavor. Additionally, Lithuanian spices such as cardamom and nutmeg are used to infuse the bread with a unique aroma and taste, giving it a Lithuanian twist. We alse have the original recipe for Portuguese Sweet Bread, so you can check it out.

• 4 cups (500g) all-purpose flour 4 cups (500g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup (60ml) Lithuanian honey 1/4 cup (60ml) Lithuanian honey
• 2 teaspoons active dry yeast 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 cup (240ml) warm milk 1 cup (240ml) warm milk
• 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, melted 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs 2 large eggs

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 280 kcal / 1172 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 6g, 3g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 50g, 18g
• Protein: 7g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.6g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, yeast, salt, cardamom, and nutmeg.
2. 2.
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the warm milk, melted butter, honey, and eggs.
3. 3.
   Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix 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 round loaf or braid it for a more traditional look.
8. 8.
   Place the shaped dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
9. 9.
   Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
10. 10.
    Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
11. 11.
    Remove from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Lithuanian honey — Use high-quality Lithuanian honey for the best flavor. If Lithuanian honey is not available, you can substitute it with any other good-quality honey.
• Ground cardamom — For the freshest flavor, grind whole cardamom pods using a mortar and pestle or a spice grinder.

Tips & Tricks

• To enhance the flavor, you can sprinkle some pearl sugar or sliced almonds on top of the bread before baking.
• For a festive touch, add a pinch of saffron threads to the dough for a vibrant yellow color.
• Serve the Lithuanian Sweet Bread warm with a dollop of Lithuanian honey or butter for an extra indulgence.
• If you prefer a sweeter bread, you can increase the amount of sugar in the recipe.
• Leftover bread can be toasted and enjoyed with jam or used to make delicious French toast.

Serving advice

Slice the Lithuanian Sweet Bread and serve it as a delightful accompaniment to your morning coffee or tea. It can also be enjoyed as a dessert, served with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of honey.

Presentation advice

Present the Lithuanian Sweet Bread on a wooden cutting board or a decorative bread basket. You can sprinkle some powdered sugar on top for an elegant touch. Serve it with a side of Lithuanian honey and a sprig of fresh mint for a visually appealing presentation.