Massa Sovada Portuguese Sweet Bread

Experience the irresistible charm of Massa Sovada, a traditional Portuguese sweet bread that's as soft as it is flavorful. This enriched bread is made with a tender dough infused with the bright zest of lemon and aromatic vanilla, yielding a subtly sweet and citrusy flavor that delights with every bite. Perfectly golden and glossy thanks to the egg wash, this bread boasts a pillowy texture achieved through careful kneading and a double-rise process. Massa Sovada is a versatile treat, ideal for breakfast slathered with butter or as a delightful tea-time companion. Whether you're exploring Portuguese cuisine or looking for a show-stopping bread recipe, this sweet loaf is sure to impress. Keywords: Portuguese sweet bread, Massa Sovada, traditional bread recipe, lemon zest bread, easy homemade bread.

Nutriscore Rating: 62/100

Prep Time:180 mins

Cook Time:40 mins

Total Time:220 mins

Servings: 12

Ingredients

• 240 ml Whole milk
• 190 g Granulated sugar
• 60 g Unsalted butter
• 7 g Active dry yeast
• 60 ml Warm water (110°F/43°C)
• 3 Large eggs
• 1 tsp Lemon zest
• 1 tsp Vanilla extract
• 540 g All-purpose flour
• 1 tsp Salt
• 1 Egg (for egg wash)
• 1 tbsp Water (for egg wash)

Directions

Step 1

In a small saucepan, heat the milk over low heat until warm but not boiling. Add the granulated sugar and butter, stirring until the sugar dissolves and the butter is melted. Let the mixture cool to lukewarm.

Step 2

In a small bowl, combine the warm water and active dry yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.

Step 3

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. Gradually add the cooled milk mixture and the activated yeast mixture. Stir to combine.

Step 4

In a separate bowl, mix the all-purpose flour with the salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a sticky dough forms.

Step 5

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a small amount of flour, a tablespoon at a time.

Step 6

Place the kneaded dough into a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until it doubles in size.

Step 7

Punch down the risen dough and shape it into a round loaf. Place it on a greased baking sheet or in a greased 9-inch round pan. Cover and allow it to rise again for 30-45 minutes.

Step 8

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 9

In a small bowl, beat the egg and water together to create the egg wash. Brush the top of the dough with the egg wash to give it a shiny, golden crust.

Step 10

Bake the bread for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. If the top browns too quickly, lightly tent it with aluminum foil.

Step 11

Remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool on a wire rack before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1332.6g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	3590.5

Total Fat 84.7g	0%
Saturated Fat 41.5g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.3g
Cholesterol 906.6mg	0%
Sodium 2747.7mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 621.0g	0%
Dietary Fiber 16.5g	0%
Total Sugars 204.2g
Protein 91.3g	0%

Vitamin D 269.9IU	0%
Calcium 510.3mg	0%
Iron 29.3mg	0%
Potassium 1395.3mg	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: 21.1%

Protein: 10.1%

Carbs: 68.8%