Plum-Infused Bread Delight

This delightful plum-infused bread is a wonderful mix of flavors and textures, perfect for an afternoon snack or a special breakfast treat. The bread boasts a subtle sweetness, thanks to the luscious plum puree, and has a soft, fluffy texture that is irresistible. Preparing this dish is a rewarding experience as it involves making your own dough from scratch and observing its transformation. The aroma that fills your kitchen as the bread bakes is sure to be comforting and inviting. It is an excellent way to utilize fresh plums, elevating their taste to new heights. This recipe is versatile enough to be adapted with different spices or additional toppings. Enjoying a slice of this bread can be a wholesome experience, especially when paired with your favorite spread or a warm beverage. Whether you are baking for loved ones or simply indulging yourself, this plum-infused bread is sure to bring joy. Dive into the creative process of baking and discover the pleasure of homemade bread.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 150 g fresh plum puree (plums with skin, pitted)
• 150 ml water
• 30 g butter
• 3 tbsp sugar
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 15 g fresh yeast
• 600 g flour

Preparation Time

Total Time: 120 minutes (including prep and cook time)

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Begin by crumbling the fresh yeast into a bowl and sprinkle with sugar, allowing the mixture to melt and activate.
2. Blend the plums into a puree and combine with water, warming the mixture slightly to create a lukewarm plum-infused base.
3. Stir the activated yeast and sugar mixture, then gently mix in the warm plum-water blend.
4. Add the salt and the melted butter, ensuring they are well incorporated.
5. Gradually sift the flour into the mixture, folding and kneading until a smooth dough forms that easily pulls away from your hands and work surface.
6. Transfer the dough into a clean bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for about an hour, or until it doubles in size.
7. Once risen, punch down the dough and divide it into approximately 16 pieces, each weighing around 65 g.
8. Shape each dough piece into a neat, round ball using your palms.
9. Place the dough balls onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they are slightly touching one another to encourage even rising.
10. Allow the dough balls to rest under a cloth for another 30 minutes.
11. Using a sharp knife, make a shallow cut along the top of each ball for a decorative touch.
12. Preheat the oven to 200°C (392°F).
13. Optionally, brush the tops of the bread with milk for a beautiful glaze and sprinkle some sugar on top.
14. Bake the dough balls in the preheated oven for about 25 to 30 minutes, until they turn golden brown.
15. Remove from the oven and let the bread cool on a wire rack under a towel to maintain its softness.
16. The bread should have a delightful plum flavor, soft texture, and a lightly sweet taste.
17. Slice a piece and enjoy the fruits of your labor as a standalone snack or with your favorite spreads.
18. For storage, keep the bread wrapped to maintain freshness or place in an airtight container.
19. To reheat, simply pop it in the oven for a few minutes to revive its warm, soft texture.
20. Relish the unique plum-infused twist on traditional bread – bon appétit!

Tips

• Substitution: You can use dried yeast in place of fresh yeast. Adjust the quantity according to package instructions.
• Enhancements: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the flour for a spicy twist.
• Proofing: Ensure the dough rises in a warm, draft-free place for optimal results.

Nutrition

• Calories: Approximately 120 calories per serving
• Protein: 4 g
• Fats: 2 g
• Carbohydrates: 23 g

Variations

• Substitute the plum puree with apple or pear puree for a different flavor profile.
• Add seeds or nuts to the dough for extra texture and nutritional value.
• Use whole wheat flour instead of white flour for a heartier, fiber-rich variant.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a dab of butter or cream cheese for a savory complement.
• Enjoy with a dollop of fruit preserves or honey for added sweetness.
• Serve alongside a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy treat.

Best Places

• Breads Bakery - Renowned for its artisanal bread offerings. Location: 18 E 16th St, New York, USA.
• Pain Poilâne - Celebrated for its traditional French bread. Location: 8 Rue du Cherche-Midi, Paris, France.
• Panadería Rosetta - Known for its unique bakery flavors. Location: Colima 179, Mexico City, Mexico.
• Tartine Bakery - Famous for its sourdough bread creations. Location: 600 Guerrero St, San Francisco, USA.
• Bakery House - Offers a delightful selection of exquisite breads. Location: 481 Cowley Rd, Oxford, UK.
• Pacharán - Popular for its fresh, Iberian-style breads. Location: Tucumán 646, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
• The Loaf - Known for innovative bread variations. Location: 1st Floor, Jalan Tengku Ampuan Jemaah, Shah Alam, Malaysia.
• Flour Bakery & Café - Offers a range of flavorful breads and pastries. Location: 1595 Washington St, Boston, USA.
• Le Fournil de Sébastien - Traditional and rustic breads are a highlight. Location: 17 Rue de Montélimar, Valence, France.
• Briciole - Italian-style breads with exceptional taste. Location: Damstraat 4, Antwerp, Belgium.