Sweet Cardamom Bread with Honey Orange Butter Recipe

If you have a soft spot for warmly spiced, beautifully braided bread that feels like a cozy hug in every bite, you are going to adore this Sweet Cardamom Bread with Honey Orange Butter. This recipe brings together the aromatic allure of ground cardamom and the subtle sweetness of honey in an irresistible bread that’s perfectly complemented by a luscious butter infused with fresh orange zest and honey. It’s a fantastic way to elevate any breakfast, brunch, or teatime moment with a loaf that’s as inviting as it is delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Crafting the perfect Sweet Cardamom Bread with Honey Orange Butter is surprisingly straightforward because each ingredient plays a crucial role in balancing flavors, textures, and that enticing golden color. From yeast that gives life to the dough, to the warmth of cardamom, to the fresh brightness of orange, every component counts.

• Warm water: Activates the yeast gently without killing it, essential for a good rise.
• Pinch of sugar: Feeds the yeast to get a bubbly and lively dough.
• Traditional active dry yeast: The key leavening agent that makes the bread fluffy and airy.
• Warm milk: Adds tenderness and moisture to the dough.
• Honey: Brings natural sweetness and helps in browning the crust beautifully.
• Melted butter: Enriches the dough, making it soft and flavorful.
• Eggs (3, divided): Improve structure and add richness.
• All-purpose flour: The sturdy base that holds everything together, plus extra for dusting.
• Ground cardamom: Provides that distinct warm, spicy aroma that makes this bread unique.
• Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all flavors.
• Softened butter (for the honey orange butter): Creates the perfect creamy spread.
• Honey (for the honey orange butter): Sweetens the butter naturally and pairs beautifully with orange.
• Orange zest: Gives a fresh, citrusy kick to brighten the butter spread.

How to Make Sweet Cardamom Bread with Honey Orange Butter

Step 1: Activate the yeast

Start by warming your water to a comfortable temperature between 105°F and 115°F. Add a small pinch of sugar and sprinkle in the yeast. Give it a gentle stir and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes bubbly and alive, signaling that your yeast is ready to work its magic.

Step 2: Mix the wet ingredients

In your stand mixer bowl, combine the warm milk and honey, stirring to fully dissolve the honey. Then add in the melted butter, two of your beaten eggs, and the yeast mixture. This combination infuses the dough with moisture, sweetness, and richness essential for a tender loaf.

Step 3: Add dry ingredients and knead the dough

Next, add the flour, ground cardamom, and salt to the bowl. Using the dough hook attachment, begin mixing the dough, encouraging it to come together by scraping down the sides as needed. If the dough sticks too much and won’t form a ball, sprinkle in more flour a tablespoon at a time. Knead for about 5 minutes on low speed until the dough feels soft, stretchy, and smooth when you handle it.

Step 4: First rise

Shape your dough into a smooth ball and place it in an oiled bowl, rubbing a bit of oil on top to prevent drying. Cover with cling film or a tea towel and let it rise in a warm spot until it doubles in size, about 1 to 1 ½ hours. This resting period is where the dough develops flavor and structure.

Step 5: Shape and braid the bread

Once the dough has risen, punch it down completely and transfer it to a floured surface. Divide it in half, then take one half and cut it into three pieces. Roll each piece into long ropes about an inch thick, tapering the ends for neat braiding. Pinch the tapered ends to start your braid, then braid the strands together before pinching and tucking under the ends. Repeat the process with the other half of the dough and place both braids on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 6: Second rise and egg wash

Cover the braids lightly and let them rise again for 30 minutes or until doubled in size. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 350°F. Beat the remaining egg with a splash of water to create an egg wash, which you’ll brush over the braids before baking. This step gives your bread a gorgeous golden sheen and a slight crispness.

Step 7: Bake and finish

Bake the bread for about 25 to 30 minutes until deep golden brown. Halfway through, carefully brush the white parts of the braid with more egg wash as the bread expands, ensuring an even color. The bread is done when it sounds hollow when you tap its bottom. Let cool completely on a rack before slicing to enjoy.

How to Serve Sweet Cardamom Bread with Honey Orange Butter

Garnishes

A sprinkle of powdered sugar or a scattering of toasted slivered almonds over the bread adds an extra touch of sophistication and texture. A few fresh orange zest curls on top of the honey orange butter spread tie the flavors together perfectly.

Side Dishes

This Sweet Cardamom Bread with Honey Orange Butter is divine on its own but pairs beautifully with a cup of chai, a bowl of fresh berries, or even a simple cream cheese spread for a brunch spread that’s both comforting and vibrant.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice the bread into thick wedges and serve in a rustic wooden basket lined with kitchen towels for a warm, welcoming vibe. Or present individual slices topped with a generous dollop of the honey orange butter and a drizzle of honey for a feast that’s as visually delightful as it is delicious.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to keep it soft. Stored at room temperature, it stays fresh for about 2 days. Refrigeration isn’t recommended as it can dry out the bread.

Freezing

To make the most of your baking, you can freeze this bread by tightly wrapping it in foil and then placing it in a heavy-duty freezer bag. It freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight at room temperature when ready to enjoy.

Reheating

Reheat slices gently in a toaster oven or a warm skillet for a few minutes to bring back that freshly baked feel. Adding a little honey orange butter during reheating will melt beautifully and revive the moisture and aroma beautifully.

FAQs

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, instant yeast can be used. You might want to reduce the amount slightly and add it directly to the flour since it doesn’t require proofing with water.

Is cardamom the only spice that works in this bread?

While cardamom is the star here, you can experiment with cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg for a different but still delicious spice profile.

Can I make this bread dairy-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the milk with any plant-based milk and replace butter with a dairy-free alternative. The bread will still be flavorful and soft.

How long does the bread keep its freshness?

For best texture and flavor, enjoy the bread within 2 days of baking when stored properly at room temperature.

Can I make smaller or larger loaves?

Yes, the dough is quite flexible. Smaller loaves will bake faster, so keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking. Larger loaves might need extra baking time.

Final Thoughts

Making this Sweet Cardamom Bread with Honey Orange Butter is like inviting warmth, spice, and a touch of sunshine right into your kitchen. It’s an absolute joy to bake and even more delightful to share with friends and family. If you’re ready to fill your home with irresistible aromas and your table with unforgettable flavor, this is the recipe you’ve been waiting for.

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