Cupcake Bread

Cupcake Bread Recipe

Introduction

Cupcake bread is a delightful fusion of two beloved baked goods: cupcakes and bread. This recipe yields a light, fluffy loaf with the sweet essence of a cupcake but the texture of a soft bread, making it perfect for breakfast, tea time, or a snack. The subtle sweetness and delicate crumb make it versatile enough to enjoy plain or with a variety of toppings.

Ingredients

For the Bread:

• 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
• 1 cup warm milk (110°F)
• ⅓ cup granulated sugar
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 large egg
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Cupcake Filling:

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup milk

Optional Toppings:

• Powdered sugar for dusting
• Cream cheese frosting
• Chocolate ganache
• Fresh berries

Instructions

Preparing the Bread Dough:

1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, mix the warm milk with 1 tablespoon of sugar. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the milk and let it sit for 5-10 minutes, until the mixture becomes frothy.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, remaining sugar, and salt. Make a well in the center.
3. Add Wet Ingredients: Pour the yeast mixture, egg, butter, and vanilla extract into the well of dry ingredients. Using a wooden spoon or the paddle attachment of a stand mixer, mix until the dough starts to come together.
4. Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. If using a stand mixer, knead with the dough hook attachment for 5-7 minutes.
5. First Rise: Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly greased bowl. Cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

Preparing the Cupcake Filling:

6. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a medium-sized bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes.
7. Add Egg and Vanilla: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
8. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
9. Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to avoid a dense filling.

Assembling the Cupcake Bread:

10. Roll Out the Dough: Once the bread dough has risen, punch it down and transfer it to a floured surface. Roll the dough out into a large rectangle, about 12×18 inches.
11. Spread the Filling: Spread the cupcake filling evenly over the rolled-out dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
12. Roll and Shape: Starting from the long side, roll the dough tightly into a log. Pinch the seams to seal the roll.
13. Second Rise: Place the rolled dough into a greased loaf pan, seam side down. Cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until it has risen slightly above the rim of the pan.

Baking:

14. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
15. Bake: Bake the bread for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped. If the top starts to brown too quickly, tent it with aluminum foil.
16. Cool: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Serving Suggestions

Cupcake bread is delightful on its own, but you can elevate it with various toppings:

• Dust with Powdered Sugar: A simple dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance and extra sweetness.
• Spread with Cream Cheese Frosting: For a more decadent treat, spread a layer of cream cheese frosting on top.
• Drizzle with Chocolate Ganache: A rich chocolate ganache drizzle makes it indulgent enough for dessert.
• Top with Fresh Berries: Adding fresh berries on top brings a burst of freshness and color.

Conclusion

This cupcake bread recipe is a wonderful twist on traditional bread, combining the best of both worlds. The soft, fluffy texture paired with the sweet cupcake filling makes it a versatile and delicious treat for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying it with your morning coffee or serving it as a dessert, this bread is sure to be a hit with everyone who tries it.