What could be better than the comforting aroma of freshly brewed coffee in the morning? How about the irresistible scent of Latte Bread baking in your oven? This delightful recipe combines the rich flavors of espresso and creamy milk with the warmth of freshly baked bread for a breakfast treat that’s sure to brighten your day.
A Breakfast Delight for Coffee Lovers
Latte Bread is the perfect indulgence for coffee enthusiasts looking to add a twist to their morning routine. With its subtle hint of espresso and soft, pillowy texture, this bread pairs beautifully with your favorite coffee or tea for a truly satisfying start to the day.
Essential Kitchen Equipment
Before you embark on your Latte Bread baking adventure, make sure you have the following kitchen tools on hand:
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk or electric mixer
- Loaf pan
- Parchment paper
- Cooling rack
Crafting Your Latte Bread: Step-by-Step
Ingredients:
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons instant espresso powder
- ½ cup milk (any variety)
- ½ cup brewed espresso or strong coffee, cooled
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions:
- Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan and line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, granulated sugar, and instant espresso powder until well combined.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, brewed espresso, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a tough bread texture.
- Bake to Perfection: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Enjoy: Allow the Latte Bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and serving.
Tips and Variations
- Add a Chocolate Swirl: For an extra indulgent treat, swirl melted chocolate into the batter before baking for a decadent chocolate-espresso flavor combination.
- Make It Dairy-Free: Substitute the milk with your favorite non-dairy alternative, such as almond milk or oat milk, for a dairy-free version of this recipe.
- Enhance with Nuts: Fold chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, into the batter for added texture and flavor.
Storing Your Latte Bread
Store any leftover Latte Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Warm slices in the toaster or microwave before serving for a fresh-from-the-oven taste.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use regular coffee instead of espresso? A: Yes! Feel free to use your favorite brewed coffee in place of espresso for a milder coffee flavor.
Q: Can I omit the espresso powder? A: While the espresso powder adds a rich coffee flavor, you can omit it if you prefer a less intense coffee taste.
Q: Can I make this recipe in a different pan size? A: Absolutely! Adjust the baking time accordingly if using a different size pan to ensure even baking.
Pairing Suggestions
Enjoy slices of warm Latte Bread alongside a steaming mug of your favorite coffee or tea for the ultimate breakfast experience. For a special treat, spread slices with butter or cream cheese for added richness.
In Conclusion
Latte Bread is a delightful way to infuse your morning routine with the flavors of your favorite coffeehouse beverage. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or toasted with your favorite spread, this bread is sure to become a new breakfast favorite.
