Creating a Genovese Sweet Bread: A Festive Recipe to Delight
Embark on a Culinary Journey with a recipe that encapsulates the festive spirit of Italian tradition – the Genovese Sweet Bread. This delightful treat, with its rich blend of flavors and scents, promises to be a festive highlight.
Presenting a Time-Honored Recipe to infuse your holiday celebrations with a touch of authentic charm. Follow these steps to craft your very own Genovese Sweet Bread.
Ingredients
- For the Bread:
- 300g All-Purpose or Strong Wheat Flour
- 50ml Water
- 50g Sugar
- 2 Eggs (approximately 100g)
- 5g Dry Yeast
- 1 tsp Orange Blossom Water
- 50g Butter
- 100g Candied Fruit
- 50g Raisins
- 50g Mixed Nuts (walnuts, almonds, hazelnuts, cashew nuts)
- Candied Cherries (to taste)
- 70g Additional Mixed Nuts for topping
- Powdered Sugar (to taste)
- For the Syrup:
- 50ml Water
- 50g Sugar
- 1 tbsp Rum
- Orange Peel (to taste)
Method
- Yeast Activation: Dissolve the yeast in 50 ml of lukewarm water with a pinch of sugar. Let it rest until frothy.
- Dough Preparation: In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, eggs, activated yeast, orange blossom water, and melted butter. Knead until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- Adding Fruits and Nuts: Incorporate the candied fruit, raisins, and mixed nuts into the dough, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
- First Rise: Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest in a warm place until it doubles in size.
- Shaping: Divide the dough into two equal parts, shape into elongated loaves, and place them in sweet bread molds. Garnish the top with additional mixed nuts.
- Baking: Bake at 180°C (356°F) for about 30-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Making the Syrup: In a saucepan, heat water, sugar, rum, and orange peel until the sugar dissolves. Allow to cool.
- Finishing Touches: Once baked, brush the breads with the syrup for a glossy finish. Sprinkle with powdered sugar before serving.
Celebrate with Homemade Genovese Sweet Bread, bringing warmth and flavor to your holiday gatherings. Enjoy the rich, festive taste that makes every moment special.
