Delicious Orange Blossom Bread Recipe
Introduction
Are you ready to bake something truly special? Today, we’re diving into the world of Orange Blossom Bread. This delightful recipe is not only a treat for your taste buds but also holds a special place in Mediterranean cuisine. Known for its sweet, floral aroma and zesty orange flavor, this bread is often served during celebrations and family gatherings.
The combination of fresh oranges and fragrant orange blossom water makes this bread unique and loved by many. It’s perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert! With its soft texture and aromatic flavors, it’s no wonder this recipe is so popular and appealing to people of all ages. Let’s get started on creating this delicious bread right in your own kitchen!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 4 cups |
| Sugar | 1 cup |
| Yeast (active dry) | 2 ¼ teaspoons |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Warm water | 1 ½ cups |
| Orange juice | ½ cup |
| Orange blossom water | 1 tablespoon |
| Butter (melted) | ¼ cup |
| Eggs | 2 large |
| Zest of 1 orange | 1 tablespoon |
*Tip: If you can’t find orange blossom water, you can use vanilla extract as a substitute for a different flavor profile.*
Step-by-Step Instructions
To create your Orange Blossom Bread, follow these easy steps:
- In a small bowl, combine the warm water and yeast. Wait for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt.
- Add the frothy yeast mixture to the dry ingredients along with orange juice, orange blossom water, melted butter, and eggs.
- Mix everything until it forms a dough. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until it’s smooth.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
- Once risen, punch the dough down and shape it into a loaf. Place it in a greased loaf pan.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Allow the loaf to rise again for about 30 minutes.
- Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, until it’s golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount | Daily Value (%) |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 200 | 10% |
| Protein | 5g | 10% |
| Carbohydrates | 35g | 12% |
| Fats | 5g | 8% |
| Sugars | 10g | – |
| Sodium | 150mg | 7% |
| Fiber | 1g | 4% |
(Note: Nutritional values may vary based on ingredients and serving size.)
Tips and Tricks
– To make your bread even more flavorful, you can add nuts or dried fruits like raisins or cranberries.
– If your bread is too dense, try kneading a little longer or letting it rise for a bit more time.
– Be careful not to add too much flour while kneading; this can make the bread tough.
FAQs
1. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes! Using whole wheat flour will give your bread a nuttier flavor and extra nutrients. Just reduce the water slightly since whole wheat flour absorbs more liquid.
2. How long does Orange Blossom Bread stay fresh?
If stored properly in an airtight container, the bread can last about 3-5 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months!
3. What can I serve with Orange Blossom Bread?
This bread is perfect with butter, jam, or even some cream cheese. Enjoy it with a cup of tea or coffee!
4. Can I make this bread without eggs?
Yes! You can use flaxseed meal or a commercial egg replacer to make it egg-free.
5. Is Orange Blossom Water safe for kids?
Yes, orange blossom water is safe for children when used in moderation. It adds a wonderful flavor without any harmful effects.
6. Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure you have a larger mixing bowl and baking pan for the extra dough.
7. How do I know when the bread is done?
The bread is done when it is golden brown and sounds hollow when you tap on the bottom. You can also use a toothpick; it should come out clean from the center.
8. What if the dough doesn’t rise?
If the dough doesn’t rise, it could be due to the yeast being old or the water being too hot or cold. Always check the yeast’s expiration date before using!
Now you’re all set to try making your very own Orange Blossom Bread! Enjoy the sweet smells and delicious flavors that will fill your kitchen and delight your friends and family. Happy baking!
