Agege Bread Recipe (Large Version)
Welcome to Love With Recipes, where culinary delights meet rich traditions. Today, we’re bringing you a cherished staple from Nigeria – Agege Bread. Known for its soft, fluffy texture and a hint of sweetness, this bread is a favorite in Lagos and beyond. Perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, Agege Bread pairs beautifully with stews, spreads, or as a standalone snack. Let’s dive into crafting this delicious large loaf!
Ingredients
The secret to perfect Agege Bread lies in the balance of its simple yet flavorful ingredients.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Description |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 500 g | For the soft, airy texture |
| Active dry yeast | 2 ½ tsp | Helps the bread rise |
| Granulated sugar | 4 tbsp | Adds a touch of sweetness |
| Warm water | 250 ml | Activates the yeast and binds the dough |
| Unsalted butter | 3 tbsp | For richness and enhanced flavor |
| Salt | 1 tsp | Balances the sweetness |
| Milk powder | 2 tbsp | Enhances the softness and flavor |
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving (100 g) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 265 |
| Carbohydrates | 45 g |
| Protein | 6 g |
| Fat | 6 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sodium | 210 mg |
Note: While this bread is delicious, it is categorized as “Not Healthy” due to its high carbohydrate and calorie content. Enjoy it as an occasional indulgence!
Instructions
1. Preparing the Yeast
- In a small bowl, combine the warm water and sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
- Sprinkle the yeast over the water and let it sit for about 5 minutes. It should foam up, indicating the yeast is active.
2. Mixing the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and milk powder. Mix well to distribute the dry ingredients evenly.
- Add the foamy yeast mixture to the bowl, followed by the melted butter.
- Mix the ingredients until they come together to form a sticky dough.
3. Kneading the Dough
- Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface.
- Knead for 10–12 minutes, until the dough is smooth, soft, and elastic. Add a little flour as needed to prevent sticking, but avoid making the dough too dry.
4. First Rise
- Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, turning it to coat the surface lightly with oil.
- Cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.
5. Shaping the Dough
- Punch down the risen dough to release air bubbles.
- Shape the dough into a large loaf and place it into a greased loaf pan.
6. Second Rise
- Cover the loaf pan with a damp cloth and let the dough rise again for 30–45 minutes, or until it puffs up and nearly doubles in size.
7. Baking the Bread
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the loaf pan in the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped.
8. Cooling and Serving
- Remove the bread from the oven and brush the crust with melted butter for a glossy finish.
- Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serving Suggestions
- Slice thickly and serve with butter, jam, or peanut butter for a simple treat.
- Pair it with Nigerian stews or soups like Egusi or Banga for an authentic meal.
- Use it as a base for sandwiches, adding your favorite fillings for a hearty snack.
Agege Bread is more than a bread; it’s a cultural icon that brings warmth and comfort to every bite. Whether you’re new to this classic recipe or revisiting a beloved favorite, we hope you enjoy creating and savoring this delicious bread as much as we do at Love With Recipes!
