italian sweet bread

Ingredients italian sweet bread

Dough
1 cup 2% milk warmed to 70 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit
1 egg slightly beaten
2 tbsp butter softened
1/4 cup sugar
3 cup all-purpose flour
2 tsp active dry yeast - (standard yeast envelopes usually contain 2 & 1/4 tsp)
Egg Wash
1 egg
1 tbsp water
1 Italian seasoning to taste (optional)

how to make italian sweet bread

This recipe makes two loaves which slice into 16 slices each. Prep is about 15 minutes but you will need about an hour total time to let the dough rise.

Warm milk. Add the yeast & sugar. Whisk together & allow to proof for 5 mins.

In a large mixing bowl lightly beat one egg. Add butter & salt, mix together.

Sift the flour into the bowl, well, then add the milk mixture. Mix together fully. When the dough begins to come together turn it out onto a floured surface.

Knead dough for 6 to 8 minutes, until the dough is elastic and has a smooth texture. Add more flour or water as needed to achieve the proper constancy.

Allow to rise for 15 minutes, cover with a clean damp cloth.

Punch down, cut in half & form each section into a ball. Place each dough ball into an oiled pan. For a loaf shape use a 5" x 9" or use a 9" casserole or round pan for a round loaf.

Turn dough to coat with the oil on the pan. Cover with a damp cloth. Allow to rise in a warm place for 45 minutes or until doubled in size.

Preheat oven to 350°F Fahrenheit.

Make the egg wash by whisking together the egg & water.

Brush egg wash on the dough. Sprinkle with Italian seasoning, if desired. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes @ 350°F. Remove from pans to wire for cooling. Allow to cool completely before slicing.