Vanilla Almond Swirl Bread

🕒 Prep: 20 min
🔥 Cook: 35 min
🍽 Serves: 12
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If you’re looking for a delightful twist on traditional bread, this Vanilla Almond Swirl Bread is a must-try. With its sweet vanilla aroma and rich almond filling, this bread is perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack. Let’s dive into this inviting recipe that’s sure to become a household favorite.

Ingredients for Vanilla Almond Swirl Bread

All-purpose flour forms the base of our bread, providing structure and texture. It's essential for that perfect crumb. Granulated sugar adds sweetness to the dough, helping to enhance the vanilla and almond flavors. Active dry yeast is the leavening agent that makes our bread rise and become fluffy.

Warm milk activates the yeast and adds richness to the dough. Unsalted butter, when melted, adds a subtle richness and tenderness. Eggs bind everything together and contribute to the bread's rich texture. Vanilla extract infuses the dough with a lovely aroma, while the salt balances the flavors.

Powdered sugar sweetens the almond filling without being grainy. Almond paste delivers an intense almond flavor and creamy texture. Almond extract amplifies the almond notes, and sliced almonds provide a delightful crunch.

Tips & Tricks

  • Use fresh yeast for the best rise. If in doubt, proof your yeast in a little warm water with sugar before adding it to the milk.
  • Let the bread cool completely before slicing to prevent it from becoming gummy.
  • If the top browns too quickly, tent it with foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.

Serving Suggestions

This bread makes a wonderful breakfast, lightly toasted and spread with butter or jam. It’s also a delightful addition to a brunch spread, pairing well with fresh fruit and a cheese platter. For an afternoon treat, enjoy it with a cup of herbal tea or a cold glass of almond milk to echo its flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes, you can use instant yeast. Simply add it directly to the dry ingredients without proofing. You might also find the rising time slightly reduced.
What if I don’t have almond paste?
You can make a quick almond paste using ground almonds, powdered sugar, and a bit of egg white to bind it together. Alternatively, a thick almond butter can work in a pinch.
Can I freeze this bread?
Absolutely! Once cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. It freezes well for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Vanilla Almond Swirl Bread Recipe Walkthrough

Start by warming your milk until it’s just slightly above body temperature. Pour it into a large bowl and sprinkle the yeast over the top. Let this sit for about five minutes — this is where the magic begins as the yeast starts to activate.

Once the yeast is looking a bit frothy, stir in the granulated sugar, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix everything together until it’s well combined. Now, gradually add in the flour, a cup at a time, mixing until a dough starts to form.

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for 8 to 10 minutes. You’re looking for a smooth and elastic dough that springs back when you poke it. Place your dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for an hour. It should double in size.

After the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Roll it out into a large rectangle — aim for about 10x15 inches. Spread the almond paste evenly over the surface, then sprinkle with powdered sugar and sliced almonds.

Roll the dough up tightly into a log, starting from the long edge. Place the log seam-side down in a greased loaf pan. Cover and let it rise again for about 30 minutes, just until it puffs up a bit more.

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once the bread has risen, bake it for 30 to 35 minutes until it’s golden brown on top. Let it cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Aromatic vanilla and almond flavors make it irresistibly fragrant.
  • The bread is soft, fluffy, and perfect for any occasion.
  • It's a fun project for bakers of all levels, offering satisfaction in both making and tasting.
  • Beautiful swirl makes it a show-stopper at gatherings or brunches.

Ingredients

4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
1 cup warm milk
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1/4 cup almond paste
1 tbsp almond extract
1/2 cup sliced almonds

Step-by-step Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine warm milk and yeast; let it sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add in granulated sugar, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir to combine.
3. Gradually add flour, mixing until a dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
6. Punch down the dough and roll it out into a large rectangle.
7. Spread the almond paste evenly over the dough, then sprinkle with powdered sugar and sliced almonds.
8. Roll the dough tightly into a log and place it in a greased loaf pan.
9. Cover and let rise for an additional 30 minutes.
10. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown.
11. Allow to cool before slicing.

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