Go Back
–+ servings
Portuguese Sweet Bread (Massa Sovada) Recipe

Portuguese Sweet Bread (Massa Sovada) Recipe

Michelle Kim
Follow this recipe to prepare a traditional Portuguese Sweet Bread, also known as Massa Sovada, which is soft, slightly sweet, and perfect for breakfast or as a snack.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 3 hours
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 3 hours 30 minutes
Course Breakfast, Snack
Cuisine Portuguese
Servings 2
Calories 200 kcal

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

You can add raisins or other dried fruits to the dough for added flavor. Store the bread in an airtight container to keep it fresh longer.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 200kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 5gFat: 5gSaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 45mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 70mgFiber: 1gSugar: 12gVitamin A: 10000IUVitamin C: 0.4mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 0.3mg
Keyword Massa Sovada, Portuguese, Sweet Bread, Traditional
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!