Lemon-Vanilla Sweet Bread with Honey Syrup: A Delightful Homemade Treat

A Decadent and Aromatic Homemade Bread

Experience the joy of baking with this Lemon-Vanilla Sweet Bread, enhanced with a rich honey syrup. This recipe brings together the fresh zest of lemon or orange, the aromatic allure of vanilla, and a hint of sweetness from honey. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a delightful snack, this bread is sure to impress with its soft texture and mouthwatering flavor.

Equipment Needed

To make this delicious Lemon-Vanilla Sweet Bread with Honey Syrup, you will need the following equipment:

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk
• Stand mixer or hand mixer (optional)
• Rolling pin
• Baking tray
• Parchment paper
• Saucepan
• Basting brush
• Oven

Ingredients for the Dough:

• 1 egg
• 620g flour (type 650)
• 100g sugar
• 50g melted butter
• 300ml milk
• 1 vanilla pod or vanilla sugar
• 10g dry yeast or 25g fresh yeast
• Zest of 1 lemon or orange

Ingredients for Brushing:

• 60g soft butter

Ingredients for the Syrup:

• 200g sugar
• 300ml water
• 1 tablespoon honey

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough:
   • In a mixing bowl, whisk together the egg, melted butter, and milk.
   • Add the sugar and vanilla, mixing until well combined.
   • In a separate bowl, combine the flour, yeast, and lemon or orange zest.
   • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring or using a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment until a smooth dough forms.
   • Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 10 minutes until it becomes elastic and smooth.
   • Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until it doubles in size.
2. Prepare the Syrup:
   • In a saucepan, combine the sugar, water, and honey.
   • Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes until it thickens slightly.
   • Remove from heat and let it cool.
3. Shape the Dough:
   • Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) with ventilation, heating both top and bottom.
   • Punch down the risen dough and roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a 50x50cm square.
   • Spread the soft butter evenly over the rolled-out dough.
4. Bake the Bread:
   • Roll up the dough tightly into a log and cut it into equal pieces.
   • Place the pieces on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between them.
   • Cover with a cloth and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
   • Bake in the preheated oven on the middle rack for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
5. Finish and Serve:
   • As soon as the bread comes out of the oven, brush it generously with the prepared syrup.
   • Let it cool slightly before serving.

Enjoy your delightful Lemon-Vanilla Sweet Bread with Honey Syrup! If you try this recipe, please leave a comment and share your experience.