If you are craving a delicious and sweet breakfast delight, Portuguese Sweet Bread (Massa Sovada) is an excellent choice. This traditional bread, known for its soft and fluffy texture, is slightly sweet and perfect for breakfast or a snack. It’s ideal for serving with butter or jam, and it’s a beloved treat during Easter but enjoyed year-round. Simple ingredients and straightforward preparation make Massa Sovada a favorite among home bakers.
Tips to Make the Portuguese Sweet Bread (Massa Sovada) Recipe:
1. Use Warm Liquids: Ensure that your milk and water are warm, not hot. Warm liquids help to activate the yeast properly and contribute to the soft texture of the bread. If the liquids are too hot, they can kill the yeast, preventing the dough from rising.
2. Knead the Dough Well: Kneading is crucial for achieving the right texture. It helps to develop the gluten, which gives the bread its characteristic fluffy interior. Knead the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic, about 10-15 minutes by hand or 5-7 minutes using a stand mixer.
3. Let the Dough Rise in a Warm Place: Allow the dough to rise in a warm, draft-free area. A slightly warm oven (turned off) or a sunny spot in your kitchen works perfectly. The warmth encourages the yeast to work, resulting in a better rise and lighter bread.
4. Brush with Egg Wash: For a beautiful golden-brown crust, brush the loaf with an egg wash before baking. This not only improves the appearance but also adds a slight shine and helps to lock in moisture in the crust.
5. Don’t Overbake: Bake the bread until the top is a deep golden brown, but keep an eye on it towards the end of the baking time. Overbaking can result in a dry loaf. A good tip is to check for doneness by tapping the bottom of the loaf – it should sound hollow when done.
How to Make Portuguese Sweet Bread (Massa Sovada) Recipe?
Portuguese Sweet Bread (Massa Sovada) Recipe
Equipment
- 1 Large mixing bowl For mixing the dough
- 1 Stand mixer Optional, for kneading the dough
- 1 Baking sheet For baking the bread
- 1 Oven Preheated to 350°F (175°C)
Ingredients
- 4 cups All-purpose flour Sifted
- 1 cup Granulated sugar
- 2 tsp Salt
- 1 packet Active dry yeast 2 1/4 tsp
- 1/2 cup Warm water 110°F (43°C)
- 1/2 cup Milk Warm
- 4 Large eggs Beaten
- 1/2 cup Unsalted butter Melted and cooled
- 1 tbsp Lemon zest Optional
Instructions
- In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sifted flour, sugar, and salt.
- Create a well in the center of the flour mixture and add the beaten eggs, melted butter, warm milk, and the frothy yeast mixture.
- Mix the ingredients until a soft dough forms. If using a stand mixer, use the dough hook attachment to knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- If kneading by hand, turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1.5-2 hours or until doubled in size.
- Punch down the risen dough to release the air. Divide the dough in half and shape each half into a round loaf.
- Place the loaves on a greased baking sheet, cover with a damp cloth, and let them rise again for about 30-45 minutes or until doubled in size.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while the loaves are rising.
- Brush the tops of the loaves with beaten egg for a shiny finish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Remove from the oven and let the loaves cool on a wire rack.
Notes
Nutrition
Portuguese Sweet Bread (Massa Sovada) is a delightful treat that brings warmth and joy to any table. Its soft, fluffy texture and slightly sweet flavor make it a perfect choice for breakfast, dessert, or even as a special treat during holidays. The recipe, while requiring a bit of time and patience, is straightforward and rewarding.
Sharing this bread with family and friends not only satisfies the taste buds but also carries on a lovely tradition. So, give it a try and enjoy the delightful aroma and taste of this cherished Portuguese classic. Happy baking!
