Bread Machine Swedish Coffee Bread Recipe

Milk: Warmed to help activate the yeast and create a tender crumb.

Egg: Adds richness and structure to the bread.

Butter: Melted to incorporate smoothly into the dough, adding flavor and moisture.

Sugar: Provides sweetness and helps feed the yeast for a good rise.

Salt: Enhances the flavors and controls yeast activity.

Ground cardamom: A key spice that gives the bread its distinctive, aromatic flavor.

Bread flour: Provides the necessary gluten structure for a chewy, well-risen loaf.

Active dry yeast: The leavening agent that makes the bread rise.

To enhance the flavor of your Swedish coffee bread, consider blooming the ground cardamom in the warmed milk before adding it to the bread machine pan. This technique releases the essential oils in the spice, providing a more robust and aromatic flavor to your bread. Simply heat the milk with the cardamom until it’s fragrant, then let it cool slightly before proceeding with the recipe.

• warmed milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk provides a similar texture and moisture content, making it a good dairy-free alternative.

• large beaten egg - Substitute with flaxseed meal and water: Mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 3 tablespoons of water to create a vegan egg substitute that helps bind the ingredients together.

• melted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil has a similar fat content and can provide a slightly sweet flavor, making it a good dairy-free option.

• sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey adds natural sweetness and moisture, though it may slightly alter the flavor profile.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used in the same quantity and provides a similar taste.

• ground cardamom - Substitute with ground cinnamon: Ground cinnamon offers a warm, sweet spice that can complement the other flavors in the bread.

• bread flour - Substitute with all-purpose flour: All-purpose flour can be used, though the texture may be slightly less chewy.

• active dry yeast - Substitute with instant yeast: Instant yeast can be used in the same quantity and does not require proofing, making it a convenient alternative.

• Allow the Swedish coffee bread to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation from forming, which can make the bread soggy.
• Wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This helps to maintain its freshness and prevent it from drying out.
• For additional protection, place the wrapped bread in a resealable plastic bag or an airtight container. This will keep the bread fresh for up to 3 days at room temperature.
• If you plan to keep the bread for longer, consider freezing it. Slice the bread before freezing to make it easier to thaw only the amount you need.
• To freeze, wrap individual slices or the whole loaf in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Place the wrapped bread in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Label the package with the date to keep track of its freshness. The bread can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• When ready to enjoy, thaw the bread at room temperature. For a quicker option, you can microwave individual slices for about 20-30 seconds or toast them directly from the freezer.
• To refresh the bread's texture, you can warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This will bring back its delightful softness and aroma.

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the bread in aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. Place it on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

• For a quicker method, use a microwave. Place a slice of bread on a microwave-safe plate. Cover it with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Microwave on medium power for 10-20 seconds. Check and repeat if necessary.

• If you have a toaster oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the bread directly on the rack or on a baking sheet. Heat for 5-10 minutes until it reaches your desired warmth.

• For a stovetop method, heat a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat. Place the bread in the skillet and cover with a lid. Heat for 2-3 minutes on each side until warmed through.

• To add a bit of crispiness, use a toaster. Slice the bread and toast it on a low setting to avoid burning. This method works best for individual slices rather than the whole loaf.

• Bread machine: This is the primary tool for making the Swedish coffee bread. It mixes, kneads, and bakes the dough automatically.

• Measuring cups: Used to measure the milk, sugar, and flour accurately.

• Measuring spoons: Essential for measuring smaller quantities like salt, cardamom, and yeast.

• Mixing bowl: Useful for beating the egg before adding it to the bread machine.

• Whisk: Helps in beating the egg to a consistent texture.

• Microwave or stovetop: Used to warm the milk and melt the butter.

• Spatula: Handy for scraping melted butter and other ingredients into the bread machine pan.

• Cooling rack: Important for allowing the bread to cool evenly after baking.

• Knife: Used for slicing the bread once it has cooled.

Prepare ingredients in advance: Measure and set out milk, egg, butter, sugar, salt, and cardamom before starting.

Use pre-ground cardamom: Save time by using pre-ground cardamom instead of grinding your own.

Warm milk quickly: Use a microwave to warm the milk in short bursts.

Melt butter efficiently: Melt the butter in the microwave to save time.

Bread machine prep: Have your bread machine ready and set to the correct setting before adding ingredients.