Delicious Sweet Bread with Honey and Nuts

This delightful sweet bread is infused with the rich flavors of honey and nuts, making it a perfect treat for any occasion. With a soft, tender texture from the use of wheat flour and a buttery taste, it promises to captivate your taste buds. This recipe combines well-balanced sweetness with a hint of nuttiness, ideal for breakfast or as an afternoon snack with coffee or tea. Preparing this dish can be a rewarding experience, as the aroma of freshly baked bread fills your kitchen. The process begins with creating a light dough that's allowed to rise, ensuring a fluffy texture. Once baked, the bread is generously topped with a luscious mixture of melted butter, honey, and crunchy nuts. Enhance this recipe by adding your choice of spices or using alternative flours for dietary preferences. Serve it warm for the best experience, perhaps with a simple fruit compote or a dollop of cream. Indulge in this homemade treat and enjoy the comforting flavors of this classic dish. Gather your ingredients and get ready to embark on a culinary adventure.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 1 kg wheat flour (coarse)
• 1 liter milk
• 150 g butter
• 150 g sugar
• 50 g yeast

For the Topping:

• 200 g honey
• 200 g butter
• Nuts (chopped)
• 2 eggs

Preparation Time

Total time: 30 minutes (prep and cook time)

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Begin by gently warming the milk, butter, a pinch of salt, and sugar together until the mixture reaches 30°C. This step is crucial for activating the yeast.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the wheat flour with the warm liquid mixture to form a soft dough. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
3. Knead the dough for several minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. This helps develop the gluten, ensuring a light and airy bread.
4. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm place until it doubles in size. This usually takes about 1-2 hours.
5. Once risen, punch down the dough to release the air and divide it into smaller portions.
6. Shape each dough portion into round discs, approximately 1-1.5 cm in thickness.
7. Place the discs onto a greased baking sheet and allow them to rise again for another 30 minutes.
8. While the dough is rising, prepare the topping. In a small saucepan, melt the butter and honey together over low heat until well blended.
9. Let the mixture cool slightly before stirring in the nuts and beaten eggs. Ensure the mixture is well combined.
10. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
11. Once the dough has completed the second rise, spread a generous amount of the honey-butter-nut mixture over each disc.
12. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and the topping is bubbling.
13. Keep an eye on the baking bread to avoid overcooking or burning the nuts on top.
14. Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool slightly on a wire rack before serving.
15. This bread is best served warm, allowing the flavors of the honey and nuts to shine.
16. Enjoy this homemade delight with a cup of tea or coffee for a comforting treat.
17. For added flavor, consider sprinkling a touch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the topping mixture.
18. If you prefer a richer bread, substitute whole milk with cream for a more decadent result.
19. Use different types of nuts, such as almonds or pecans, to customize the flavor to your liking.
20. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.

Tips

• **Ensure** that the milk mixture is warm, not hot, to avoid killing the yeast.
• **Knead** the dough adequately for the best texture.
• **Feel free** to experiment with whole wheat flour for a healthier version.
• **Add** a pinch of cardamom to the topping for a unique flavor twist.

Nutrition

• Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
• Protein: 8g
• Fats: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 42g

Variations

• **Gluten-Free Version:** Use gluten-free flour blend in place of wheat flour for those with gluten sensitivities.
• **Vegan Option:** Substitute butter with plant-based margarine and use a non-dairy milk like almond or soy milk.
• **Nut-Free:** Omit the nuts and utilize seeds like sunflower or pumpkin if nut allergies are a concern.

Serving Suggestions

• **Serve** with fresh fruit or a fruit compote for a balanced breakfast.
• **Pair** with a hot cup of coffee or a soothing herbal tea for a relaxing snack.
• **Top** with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.

Best Places

• Le Meurice - An elegant dining experience with exquisite desserts. Location: 228 Rue de Rivoli, Paris, France.
• Maison Bertaux - A classic patisserie serving delicious sweet treats. Location: 28 Greek St, London, UK.
• Café Sacher - Known for its famous Sachertorte. Location: Philharmoniker Str. 4, 1010 Vienna, Austria.
• Pierre Hermé - Renowned for innovative pastries and macarons. Location: 72 Rue Bonaparte, Paris, France.
• Pasticceria Marchesi - A historic pastry shop offering traditional Italian sweets. Location: Via Santa Maria alla Porta, 11/a, Milan, Italy.
• Ladó Café - A cozy spot offering delicious cakes and pastries. Location: Hadikgasse 62, 1140 Wien, Austria.
• Café de la Paix - Iconic café with a rich history and delicious pastries. Location: 5-7, Place de l'Opéra, Paris, France.
• Café Central - A legendary coffeehouse with a grand ambiance. Location: Herrengasse 14, 1010 Wien, Austria.
• Demel - Known for its imperial and royal court pastries. Location: Kohlmarkt 14, 1010 Wien, Austria.
• Savoy Hotel Afternoon Tea - Indulge in a quintessentially British afternoon tea experience. Location: Strand, London, UK.