Halloween or Fall Porcupine Bread

Get into the spooky spirit with this delightful Halloween or Fall Porcupine Bread, a festive showstopper perfect for seasonal gatherings! This homemade bread combines a soft, golden loaf with whimsical touches like almond sliver "quills" and adorable black bean eyes, turning a simple dough into an edible work of art. With its buttery crust created by a glossy egg wash and a fluffy interior, this bread is as delicious as it is eye-catching. Whether you’re planning a fun family baking activity or looking to impress at your fall potluck, this creative recipe is sure to bring smiles to the table. Serve it warm alongside soups, stews, or enjoy it on its own as a charming centerpiece for your holiday celebrations!

Nutriscore Rating: 71/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:45 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 3 cups All-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons Granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 2.25 teaspoons Instant yeast
• 1 cup Warm water (about 110°F/43°C)
• 3 tablespoons Olive oil
• 2 pieces Black beans (for eyes or decoration)
• 0.5 cup Almond slivers
• 1 piece Egg (for egg wash)
• 1 tablespoon Water (for egg wash)

Directions

Step 1

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and instant yeast.

Step 2

Add the warm water and olive oil to the dry ingredients. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.

Step 3

Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 8 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook to knead on medium speed for 6-7 minutes.

Step 4

Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.

Step 5

Punch down the dough and shape it into an oval to resemble the body of a porcupine. Place the shaped dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 6

Insert almond slivers into the top and sides of the dough at an angle, creating the porcupine's 'spikes.' Be sure to leave space for the porcupine's face.

Step 7

Press the two black beans into the dough to form the porcupine's eyes.

Step 8

In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water to create an egg wash. Lightly brush the entire dough, including the almond slivers, with the egg wash.

Step 9

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating, allow the shaped dough to rest for 15 minutes.

Step 10

Bake the porcupine bread for 20-25 minutes, or until it is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Step 11

Remove from the oven and let cool on a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy your adorable and festive Porcupine Bread!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(815g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2261.5

Total Fat 84.6g	0%
Saturated Fat 10.9g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 4.0g
Cholesterol 186mg	0%
Sodium 2430.6mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 317.6g	0%
Dietary Fiber 21.1g	0%
Total Sugars 28.7g
Protein 60.3g	0%

Vitamin D 41IU	0%
Calcium 285.1mg	0%
Iron 20.8mg	0%
Potassium 1065.1mg	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: 33.5%

Protein: 10.6%

Carbs: 55.9%