Frisian Sugar Bread Recipe

Flour: The base of the bread, providing structure and texture.

Lukewarm milk: Activates the yeast and helps create a soft dough.

Softened butter: Adds richness and flavor to the bread.

Pearl sugar: Provides the signature crunch and sweetness.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the bread.

Active dry yeast: Leavens the bread, making it rise and become fluffy.

Cinnamon: Adds a warm, spicy note that complements the sweetness.

When folding in the sugar, make sure to do it gently to avoid breaking the pearl sugar pieces. This ensures that the sugar remains in larger chunks, giving the bread its characteristic sweet pockets and delightful texture.

• flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour provides a nuttier flavor and more fiber, though it may result in a denser bread.

• lukewarm milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk is a good dairy-free alternative that will still provide moisture to the dough.

• softened butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can replace butter for a dairy-free option and adds a subtle coconut flavor.

• pearl sugar - Substitute with coarse sugar: Coarse sugar can mimic the texture of pearl sugar, though it may not provide the same crunch.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used in the same quantity and offers a slightly different mineral content.

• active dry yeast - Substitute with instant yeast: Instant yeast can be used in the same quantity and does not need to be dissolved in liquid before adding to the dough.

• cinnamon - Substitute with nutmeg: Nutmeg offers a warm, spicy flavor that can complement the sweetness of the bread similarly to cinnamon.

• Allow the Frisian sugar bread to cool completely on a wire rack before storing. This prevents condensation from forming inside the storage container, which can make the bread soggy.
• Wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This helps to keep the bread fresh by preventing it from drying out.
• Place the wrapped bread in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. This extra layer of protection helps to maintain the bread's moisture and flavor.
• Store the bread at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you plan to keep it longer, consider freezing it to extend its shelf life.
• For freezing, slice the bread before wrapping. This allows you to take out only the number of slices you need, without having to thaw the entire loaf.
• Wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap or parchment paper. Then, place the wrapped slices in a resealable freezer bag or an airtight container.
• Label the bag or container with the date to keep track of how long the bread has been stored. Frisian sugar bread can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• To thaw, remove the desired number of slices from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Alternatively, you can warm the slices in a toaster or oven for a few minutes to enjoy them warm.
• Avoid refrigerating the bread, as this can cause it to dry out more quickly. Room temperature or freezing are the best options for maintaining the bread's texture and flavor.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 150°C (300°F).
  2. Wrap the Frisian Sugar Bread in aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out.
  3. Place the wrapped bread on a baking sheet.
  4. Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
  5. Remove from the oven, unwrap, and enjoy the warm, slightly crispy crust.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Slice the Frisian Sugar Bread into individual servings.
  2. Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate.
  3. Cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
  4. Microwave on medium power for 20-30 seconds.
  5. Check if it's warm enough; if not, continue in 10-second intervals.

• Toaster Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your toaster oven to 150°C (300°F).
  2. Place slices of Frisian Sugar Bread directly on the rack or on a baking sheet.
  3. Toast for about 5-7 minutes, keeping an eye on it to avoid burning.
  4. Remove and let it cool slightly before enjoying the crispy edges.

• Stovetop Method:

  1. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat.
  2. Lightly butter both sides of the Frisian Sugar Bread slices.
  3. Place the slices in the skillet.
  4. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until warmed through and slightly crispy.
  5. Remove from the skillet and let it cool for a minute before serving.

• Steaming Method:

  1. Set up a steamer or a pot with a steaming basket.
  2. Bring water to a gentle boil.
  3. Place slices of Frisian Sugar Bread in the steaming basket.
  4. Cover and steam for about 5 minutes.
  5. Carefully remove the bread and let it cool slightly before serving.

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl used to combine the flour, salt, and cinnamon, and later to mix in the yeast mixture and softened butter.

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

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure the salt, cinnamon, and yeast.

• Whisk: Used to dissolve the yeast in lukewarm milk.

• Wooden spoon: Used to mix the dough initially before kneading.

• Stand mixer: Optional, but can be used with a dough hook attachment to knead the dough.

• Clean surface: A flat, clean surface for kneading the dough by hand.

• Loaf pan: A greased pan where the dough will be placed to rise and bake.

• Plastic wrap or clean towel: Used to cover the loaf pan while the dough rises.

• Oven: Preheated to 180°C (350°F) for baking the bread.

• Cooling rack: Used to cool the bread after baking.

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

Prepare ingredients in advance: Measure and organize flour, butter, and sugar before starting to streamline the process.

Use a stand mixer: Save time on kneading by using a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment.

Warm the milk quickly: Use a microwave to warm the milk to the right temperature in seconds.

Proof in a warm spot: Speed up the rising process by placing the dough in a warm, draft-free area.

Preheat the oven early: Start preheating the oven while the dough is rising to save time.