Pão de Mel (Portuguese Honey Bread)
This deliciously sweet and fragrant Portuguese honey bread is perfect for those who crave a rich, moist dessert bread. Its warm blend of spices, honey, and cocoa offers a cozy flavor that pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. The added melted chocolate drizzle makes it an irresistible treat to enjoy any time of day.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 3 cups |
| Granulated sugar | 1 cup |
| Ground cloves | 3 teaspoons |
| Ground nutmeg | 1 teaspoon |
| Baking powder | 1 tablespoon |
| Large eggs | 2 |
| Honey | 2/3 cup |
| Milk | 1 cup |
| Butter, melted | 1/2 cup |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 4333.6 kcal |
| Total Fat | 110.9 g |
| Saturated Fat | 63.8 g |
| Cholesterol | 487.7 mg |
| Sodium | 1131.4 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 832.2 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 40.5 g |
| Sugars | 481.6 g |
| Protein | 82.1 g |
Note: Nutritional values are based on one loaf serving and may vary depending on the size and specific ingredients used.
Instructions:
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Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the bread cooks evenly and results in a golden-brown crust. Prepare your baking pan during this time. -
Prepare the Loaf Pan:
Lightly grease one large loaf pan with cooking spray, making sure to coat the bottom and sides thoroughly to prevent sticking. If you prefer to use smaller loaf pans, you can cut down the baking time to 40 minutes, but be sure to check doneness with a toothpick. -
Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of granulated sugar, 3 teaspoons of ground cloves, 1 teaspoon of ground nutmeg, and 1 tablespoon of baking powder. Stir these dry ingredients together until they are evenly mixed. The spices will give the bread its characteristic warmth and fragrance. -
Incorporate Wet Ingredients:
To the dry ingredients, add 2 large eggs, 2/3 cup of honey, 1 cup of milk, and 1/2 cup of melted butter. Using a whisk or electric mixer, blend everything together until the mixture is smooth and well combined. The batter should be slightly thick but pourable. -
Bake the Bread:
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly and tap the pan gently on the counter to release any air bubbles. Place the pan into the preheated oven and bake for approximately 1 hour, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. -
Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer the loaf onto a wire rack to cool completely. -
Add the Finishing Touch:
Once the bread has cooled, drizzle melted chocolate over the top for an extra indulgent finish. This step is optional but highly recommended for those who love a touch of decadence.
Tips for Perfect Pão de Mel:
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Loaf Pan Size: As mentioned, if you’re short on time, you can use two smaller loaf pans, which will reduce the baking time to around 40 minutes. Just be sure to check for doneness with a toothpick.
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Melted Chocolate: For the melted chocolate drizzle, use high-quality chocolate and melt it in a heatproof bowl over simmering water, or in the microwave in short bursts. This will give the bread an elegant finish.
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Storage: This bread keeps well for up to a week if stored in an airtight container. You can also freeze it for longer storage.
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Spice Variations: Feel free to adjust the spices to suit your taste. Some people like to add a pinch of cinnamon or ginger to further enhance the flavor.
Serving Suggestions:
Pão de Mel is perfect for enjoying with your morning coffee, afternoon tea, or as a delightful treat for dessert. The bread pairs wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a more indulgent experience. You can also serve it as part of a Portuguese-themed meal or festive celebration.
Whether you’re baking this honey bread for a special occasion or simply to enjoy with your family, Pão de Mel is a delightful way to explore the flavors of Portuguese baking. The combination of honey, spices, and chocolate creates a perfect balance of sweetness and richness that will leave everyone asking for a second slice!
Category: Breads
Cuisine: Portuguese, European
Keywords: Portuguese Honey Bread, European Bread, Oven-baked Bread, Honey Bread Recipe, Healthy Bread, Traditional Portuguese Desserts, Easy Breads Under 4 Hours
