Are you ready to take your baking skills to the next level? Look no further! In this article, we’ll be exploring 20 irresistible and unique bread recipes that are sure to delight even the most adventurous bakers. From sweet treats like Matcha and White Chocolate Babka to savory options like Charcoal-Infused Garlic Focaccia, there’s something for everyone.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, these recipes are designed to inspire and challenge you to try new flavors and techniques. And the best part? They’re all easy to make and require minimal special equipment – just your standard kitchen appliances and a willingness to experiment!
In this article, we’ll be highlighting some of the most unique and delicious breads from around the world, including Sourdough with Black Sesame and Honey Swirl, Purple Sweet Potato Milk Bread, and many more. So grab your mixing bowl and let’s get started on this tasty journey!
Sourdough with Black Sesame and Honey Swirl
This recipe combines the tangy flavor of sourdough with the nutty taste of black sesame seeds and the sweetness of honey, creating a unique and delicious bread.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sourdough starter (active and bubbly)
– 3 cups bread flour
– 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon black sesame seeds
– 2 tablespoons honey
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. Mix the sourdough starter with 1 cup of water until well combined.
2. Add the bread flour, whole wheat flour, and salt to the mixture. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise at room temperature for 4-5 hours.
5. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
6. Roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch (6 mm). Sprinkle black sesame seeds evenly over the surface.
7. Drizzle honey in a zig-zag pattern on top of the sesame seeds.
8. Roll up the dough tightly, starting from one long edge. Cut into 12 equal pieces.
9. Place the rolls onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving about 1 inch (2.5 cm) space between each roll.
10. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Purple Sweet Potato Milk Bread
Discover the unique flavor of purple sweet potato milk bread, a delicious twist on traditional bread. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of purple sweet potatoes with the creaminess of milk to create a moist and flavorful loaf.
Ingredients:
– 2 large purple sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1 cup milk
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, milk, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for 5 minutes, or until yeast is activated.
3. Add flour, salt, and egg wash to the mixture. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in the prepared loaf pan. Cover with plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Matcha and White Chocolate Babka
This Japanese-inspired babka combines the brightness of matcha green tea with the creaminess of white chocolate, wrapped in a tender, flaky dough. Perfect for a unique breakfast or brunch treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 package active dry yeast
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup matcha powder
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 cup white chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine yeast, flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
2. Add softened butter, matcha powder, and beaten egg; mix until a dough forms.
3. Roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch (6 mm).
4. Melt white chocolate chips in the microwave or in a double boiler.
5. Spread melted white chocolate over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
6. Roll up the dough tightly and place seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Charcoal-Infused Garlic Focaccia
Take your love of garlic and charcoal to the next level with this unique focaccia recipe. The smoky flavor of activated charcoal pairs perfectly with pungent garlic, creating a savory and aromatic bread that’s perfect for serving alongside soups or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup charcoal powder (activated charcoal)
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add olive oil, salt, charcoal powder, and garlic to the bowl. Mix until well combined.
3. Gradually add flour to the bowl, mixing until a sticky dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 10 minutes, then let it rest for 1 hour in a warm place.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Shape the dough into a rectangular loaf and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turmeric and Coconut Swirl Buns
These soft and fluffy buns are infused with the earthy warmth of turmeric and the creamy richness of coconut. Perfect for a cozy breakfast or afternoon snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
– 1 teaspoon instant yeast
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/2 cup warm milk
– 1 large egg
– 1/4 cup melted coconut oil
– 1 tablespoon turmeric powder
– 1/4 cup shredded coconut (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flours, yeast, salt, sugar, and warm milk. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Add egg, melted coconut oil, and turmeric powder. Mix until the dough comes together in a sticky ball.
4. Knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Roll out to a thickness of about 1/4 inch (6 mm). Sprinkle with shredded coconut if desired.
6. Roll up tightly and cut into 8-10 equal pieces.
7. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each bun.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Rosemary and Olive Oil Beer Bread
This aromatic bread combines the earthy flavors of rosemary with the richness of olive oil and the crispness of beer, perfect for a cozy evening or as a unique addition to your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup whole wheat flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 1 cup warm beer (55°F – 65°F)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flours, salt, sugar, and yeast.
3. Add beer, olive oil, and rosemary; mix until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes, until smooth.
5. Place the dough in the prepared loaf pan and cover with plastic wrap or a damp cloth.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Spiced Pumpkin and Maple Pull-Apart Bread
Warm up with this seasonal treat that combines the comfort of pumpkin spice with the sweetness of maple syrup, all wrapped up in a soft and fluffy bread. Perfect for fall gatherings or as a cozy breakfast option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons sugar
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 cup pure pumpkin puree
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a small bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes.
3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
4. Add pumpkin puree, maple syrup, and melted butter to the dry ingredients. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
5. Knead for 10 minutes. Place in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour.
6. Punch down dough and divide into 12-15 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and place on prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Ube Pandesal with Cheese Filling
Discover a new favorite snack with this unique fusion of Filipino and Western flavors! Soft and fluffy pandesal filled with melted cheese and sweet ube jam is the perfect treat to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons instant yeast
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1 tablespoon ube jam
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Vegetable oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, salt, and sugar.
3. Gradually add warm water and mix until a sticky dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
5. Divide into 6-8 equal pieces.
6. Roll each piece into a ball and then flatten slightly.
7. Place a spoonful of ube jam and shredded cheese in the center of each pandesal.
8. Fold and seal the pandesal, pressing edges to seal.
9. Brush with vegetable oil and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Jalapeño and Cheddar Cornbread Muffins
These Jalapeño and Cheddar Cornbread Muffins are the perfect blend of sweet and heat, packed with the flavors of roasted jalapeños and sharp cheddar cheese. A great addition to any meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup milk
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
– 2-3 roasted jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, egg, milk, and chopped cilantro (if using); stir until just combined.
4. Fold in chopped jalapeños and cheddar cheese.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Cardamom and Orange Brioche
Experience the perfect blend of warm spices and citrusy freshness with this Cardamom and Orange Brioche recipe. This sweet bread is perfect for a special breakfast or brunch, and its unique flavors will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs, beaten
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1 tablespoon orange zest
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, yeast, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and melted butter.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
7. Punch down the dough, shape into a round or oblong loaf, and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Red Velvet Monkey Bread with Cream Cheese Glaze
Elevate your breakfast or brunch game with this show-stopping Red Velvet Monkey Bread, topped with a tangy and creamy glaze. Moist and flavorful, this sweet treat is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14.4 oz) refrigerated biscuits
– 1 cup red velvet cake mix
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Cream Cheese Glaze: 8 ounces cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1 tablespoon milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine biscuits, red velvet cake mix, sugar, and melted butter. Mix until combined.
3. Pour in egg and vanilla extract; mix until dough forms.
4. Roll out dough into small balls and place in prepared baking dish.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Allow to cool completely before drizzling with Cream Cheese Glaze (mix softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and milk until smooth).
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato and Basil Fougasse
Sun-Dried Tomato and Basil Fougasse Recipe
Elevate your breakfast or brunch game with this flavorful French-inspired pastry, infused with the sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes and freshness of basil.
Ingredients:
– 1 package puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a small bowl, mix together sun-dried tomatoes and basil leaves. Sprinkle mixture evenly over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the filling and season with salt to taste.
5. Fold the edges of the pastry up over the filling, pressing gently to seal.
6. Place fougasse on prepared baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
7. Allow to cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chai-Spiced Banana Bread
This recipe combines the comforting flavors of chai spices with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas, creating a moist and aromatic banana bread perfect for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground cardamom
– 1/4 tsp ground cloves
– 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, combine mashed bananas, melted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, and black pepper. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Lemon and Poppy Seed Greek Yogurt Bread
Brighten up your morning with this refreshing bread infused with the zest of lemon and the crunch of poppy seeds. This moist and flavorful loaf is perfect for a weekend breakfast or a snack on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup poppy seeds
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine yogurt, egg, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in poppy seeds.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Beetroot and Feta Swirl Loaf
This sweet and savory loaf is a perfect combination of earthy beetroot and tangy feta cheese, swirled together to create a stunning centerpiece for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup beetroot puree
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine beetroot puree, feta cheese, yogurt, egg, and olive oil. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and swirl gently to create a marbled effect.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Brown Butter and Sage Dinner Rolls
Elevate your dinner table with these scrumptious rolls infused with the rich flavors of brown butter and earthy sage. Perfect for special occasions or cozy nights in.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 tablespoon browned butter (see note)
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh sage
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, and warm water. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Add melted butter, browned butter, sage, and salt. Mix until the dough comes together in a sticky ball.
4. Knead for 5-7 minutes, then place in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Punch down dough, shape into rolls, and place on prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Note: To make browned butter, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until the butter turns golden brown and has a nutty aroma (about 5-7 minutes).
Miso and Scallion Pullman Loaf
This savory bread combines the umami flavor of miso with the pungency of scallions, perfect for a unique breakfast or snack. The pullman shape adds an extra layer of texture and visual appeal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons white miso paste
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup chopped scallions (green and white parts)
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add miso paste, melted butter, and 1 cup of flour. Mix until smooth.
3. Gradually add the remaining flour, chopped scallions, and salt. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 10 minutes, then place it in a lightly oiled bowl to rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a pullman loaf pan with parchment paper.
6. Gently shape the dough into the prepared pan and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Dark Chocolate and Cherry Sourdough
Elevate your bread game with this rich and fruity sourdough recipe, featuring dark chocolate chips and sweet cherries.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup active sourdough starter (100% hydration)
– 3 cups bread flour
– 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1/4 cup dried cherries, chopped
– 1 tablespoon water
Instructions:
1. Mix starter with flour and sugar in a large bowl until just combined.
2. Add whole wheat flour, salt, and chocolate chips; mix until shaggy dough forms.
3. Gradually add water while mixing until dough comes together.
4. Knead for 5-7 minutes, then shape into a round or oblong loaf.
5. Proof at room temperature (72°F/22°C) for 4-6 hours, or overnight in the fridge.
6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until bread sounds hollow when tapped.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Za’atar and Olive Flatbread
This flavorful flatbread combines the bright, herbaceous notes of za’atar with the brininess of Kalamata olives. Perfect for a quick snack or as a side to your favorite Mediterranean dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon sugar
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon za’atar
– 6-8 Kalamata olives, pitted
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, and sugar.
2. Gradually add warm water, stirring with a fork until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Turn dough out onto a floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. Divide dough into 2-3 equal pieces.
5. Roll each piece into a thin circle, about 1/8 inch thick.
6. Brush edges with olive oil and sprinkle with za’atar.
7. Top with olives.
8. Cook in a dry skillet or oven at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, until crispy and golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cinnamon and Walnut Schiacciata
Schiacciata is a classic Tuscan flatbread that’s perfect for any time of day, whether as a snack or dessert. This recipe adds the warm sweetness of cinnamon and the crunch of walnuts to create a delicious twist on the traditional.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon instant yeast
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/2 cup lukewarm water
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh walnuts
– 1 cinnamon stick, ground into a fine powder (about 1 teaspoon)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, yeast, and sugar.
2. Gradually add lukewarm water to form a sticky dough.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. Roll out the dough into a rectangle shape, about 1/8 inch thick.
5. Sprinkle walnuts and cinnamon evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
6. Fold the edges of the dough over the filling to form a crust.
7. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to take your bread game to the next level with these 20 unique recipes! From sweet potato milk bread to charcoal-infused garlic focaccia, and from matcha and white chocolate babka to dark chocolate and cherry sourdough, there’s something for every adventurous baker. With a range of flavors and textures to explore, you’ll be inspired to try new ingredients and techniques in the kitchen. Whether you’re looking for a show-stopping centerpiece or a simple everyday loaf, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
