T'anta Wawa - Peruvian Sweet Bread

Ingredients

• 500g (4 cups) all-purpose flour 500g (4 cups) all-purpose flour
• 7g (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast 7g (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
• 100g (½ cup) granulated sugar 100g (½ cup) granulated sugar
• 120ml (½ cup) warm milk 120ml (½ cup) warm milk
• 120g (½ cup) unsalted butter, melted 120g (½ cup) unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tsp salt 1 tsp salt
• Egg wash (1 egg beaten with 1 tbsp water) Egg wash (1 egg beaten with 1 tbsp water)
• Powdered sugar, for dusting Powdered sugar, for dusting

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 8g, 5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 40g, 12g
• Protein: 6g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast and 1 tablespoon of sugar in warm milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
2. 2.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, remaining sugar, ground cinnamon, and salt.
3. 3.
   Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the yeast mixture, melted butter, and eggs. 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 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.
6. 6.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
7. 7.
   Punch down the dough and divide it into smaller portions. Shape each portion into desired figures, such as babies or animals.
8. 8.
   Place the shaped dough on the prepared baking sheet and brush them with the egg wash.
9. 9.
   Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the T'anta Wawa turns golden brown.
10. 10.
    Remove from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Butter — Make sure the butter is melted but not hot to avoid killing the yeast.
• Active dry yeast — Check the expiration date and ensure the yeast is activated by proofing it in warm milk with sugar before adding it to the dough.
• Ground cinnamon — Use freshly ground cinnamon for the best flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• For a richer flavor, you can add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the dough.
• If you prefer a sweeter bread, you can increase the amount of sugar in the dough.
• To achieve a shiny crust, brush the T'anta Wawa with the egg wash twice during baking.
• Serve the T'anta Wawa warm with a cup of hot chocolate for a truly indulgent experience.
• Store any leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Serving advice

T'anta Wawa is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven when it is still warm. Serve it as a delightful breakfast treat or as a sweet snack with a cup of tea or coffee.

Presentation advice

Arrange the T'anta Wawa on a platter, showcasing their adorable shapes. Dust them with powdered sugar for an elegant touch. You can also add a sprinkle of ground cinnamon on top for an extra burst of flavor.