Cuban Bread

Experience the irresistible flavors of homemade Cuban Bread, a traditional favorite renowned for its pillowy softness and golden, crispy crust. Made with just a handful of pantry staples like all-purpose flour, lard (or vegetable shortening), and a touch of sugar, this bread achieves its signature texture through careful kneading and the secret addition of steam during baking. With a quick prep and rise time, it’s perfect for bakers of all skill levels. Serve it warm with butter, use it to make authentic Cuban sandwiches, or enjoy it alongside soups and stews. This two-loaf recipe ensures plenty to share, making it an ideal choice for family meals or gatherings. Discover the joy of baking this simple yet flavorful bread that will transport your taste buds straight to the heart of Cuba!

Nutriscore Rating: 65/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:45 mins

Servings: 2

Ingredients

• 6 cups All-purpose flour
• 2.25 cups Warm water
• 2.25 teaspoons Active dry yeast
• 1 tablespoon Salt
• 1 tablespoon Sugar
• 2 tablespoons Lard or vegetable shortening (melted and cooled)

Directions

Step 1

In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of warm water and the sugar. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the water and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.

Step 2

Add 3 cups of all-purpose flour to the yeast mixture. Stir with a wooden spoon until well combined and a sticky dough forms.

Step 3

Mix in the melted and cooled lard (or vegetable shortening) and salt. Gradually add the remaining 3 cups of flour, one cup at a time, mixing until the dough becomes sticky but manageable.

Step 4

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until it is smooth and elastic. If the dough sticks too much, add a sprinkle of flour as needed.

Step 5

Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly greased bowl, turning the dough to coat it in oil. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and allow it to rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Step 6

Punch down the risen dough and divide it into two equal portions. Shape each portion into an oval loaf about 12 inches long and 3-4 inches wide.

Step 7

Place the loaves on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased. Cover them with the towel and let them rise for 30-40 minutes until slightly puffed.

Step 8

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place a shallow pan of hot water on the lower rack of the oven to create steam, which will help create a crispy crust.

Step 9

Using a sharp knife or razor blade, make 3-4 diagonal slashes across the tops of the loaves, about 1/4 inch deep.

Step 10

Bake the loaves on the middle rack for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Step 11

Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1323.3g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2918.9

Total Fat 33.0g	0%
Saturated Fat 11.1g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0g
Cholesterol 24.3mg	0%
Sodium 7095.7mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 564.7g	0%
Dietary Fiber 21.0g	0%
Total Sugars 14.1g
Protein 77.1g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 100.1mg	0%
Iron 33.7mg	0%
Potassium 914.9mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 10.4%

Protein: 10.8%

Carbs: 78.9%