Spiced Dutch Breakfast Bread
Spiced Dutch Breakfast Bread, also known as Ontbijtkoek, is a beloved holiday treat that has been cherished in Dutch homes for generations. This moist, dense bread is a delightful blend of aromatic spices and rich molasses, offering a flavor profile that is reminiscent of gingerbread but with a unique depth that sets it apart. The addition of crystallized ginger provides an unexpected burst of warmth and sweetness, making each slice a warming indulgence perfect for chilly winter days. Enjoy sliced with butter, topped with cheese, or as a sweet snack on its own. Its sticky crust develops during baking, creating a delightful texture that adds to the overall experience. This simple, fuss-free recipe is ideal for both novice and seasoned bakers, ensuring a delicious loaf that will become a holiday staple in your own home.
16
Servings
112.5
Calories
11
Ingredients
Ingredients
self-rising flour
2 cups (sifted)
dark brown sugar
1/2 cup (packed)
molasses
1/3 cup (unsulfured)
milk
1 cup (whole or buttermilk)
ground cloves
1 teaspoon (freshly ground for best flavor)
cinnamon
1 teaspoon (ground)
ground ginger
1 teaspoon (freshly ground for a more intense flavor)
nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon (freshly grated, if possible)
ground cardamom
1/2 teaspoon (freshly ground for optimal flavor)
salt
1 pinch (fine sea salt)
crystallized ginger
2 tablespoons (chopped (optional))
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 300 degrees Fahrenheit (150 degrees Celsius).
2
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sifted self-rising flour, dark brown sugar, molasses, milk, and all spices. Stir together until a smooth, thick paste forms. If using, fold in the chopped crystallized ginger for bursts of flavor.
3
Lightly coat a loaf pan with baking spray and then dust it with flour, ensuring even coverage to prevent sticking.
4
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
5
Bake in the preheated oven for 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. To keep the loaf moist, crack the oven door open slightly and allow it to cool in the turned-off oven for an additional 30 minutes.
6
Once cooled, carefully remove the loaf from the pan and transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Store the bread in a plastic bag to maintain its moisture, ensuring it stays soft and delicious.
Nutrition Information
1.9g
Fat
22.5g
Carbs
1.88g
Protein
0.75g
Fiber
9.38g
Sugar
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Spiced Dutch Breakfast Bread?
Spiced Dutch Breakfast Bread, also known as Ontbijtkoek, is a moist, dense bread flavored with aromatic spices and molasses, traditionally enjoyed in Dutch homes.
What are the primary spices used in this recipe?
This recipe uses a blend of ground cloves, cinnamon, ground ginger, nutmeg, and ground cardamom for a rich, aromatic flavor.
What is the recommended oven temperature for baking Ontbijtkoek?
The oven should be preheated to 300 degrees Fahrenheit or 150 degrees Celsius.
How many servings does one loaf provide?
This recipe is designed to yield 16 servings.
What type of flour is required for Dutch Breakfast Bread?
The recipe calls for 2 cups of sifted self-rising flour.
How do I prevent the bread from sticking to the pan?
Lightly coat your loaf pan with baking spray and then dust it with flour to ensure even coverage before adding the batter.
What is the secret to keeping the bread moist after baking?
Once baking is finished, crack the oven door slightly and let the loaf cool inside the turned-off oven for 30 minutes to retain moisture.
Is crystallized ginger a necessary ingredient?
No, crystallized ginger is optional, but it adds pleasant bursts of warmth and sweetness to the bread.
How should I store the finished Spiced Dutch Breakfast Bread?
Store the cooled bread in a plastic bag to maintain its moisture and ensure it stays soft.
What kind of milk should I use?
You can use either whole milk or buttermilk for this recipe.
How many calories are in a single serving?
Each serving contains approximately 112.5 calories.
Does this bread have a specific crust texture?
Yes, a delightful sticky crust develops on the bread during the baking process.
How can I tell if the bread is finished baking?
The bread is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, typically after 60 minutes.
What is the preparation method for the dark brown sugar?
The dark brown sugar should be packed when measuring the 1/2 cup required.
Is this recipe suitable for beginner bakers?
Yes, it is a simple, fuss-free recipe that is ideal for both novice and seasoned bakers.
How much fat is in one slice of this bread?
There is approximately 1.9g of fat per serving.
What are some serving suggestions for Ontbijtkoek?
It can be enjoyed sliced with butter, topped with cheese, or eaten on its own as a sweet snack.
What gives the bread its signature dark color and depth?
The combination of dark brown sugar, molasses, and a high concentration of aromatic spices creates its deep color and flavor.
How much molasses is needed?
The recipe requires 1/3 cup of unsulfured molasses.
Is there any salt in this recipe?
Yes, a pinch of fine sea salt is included to balance the flavors.
What is the protein content per serving?
Each serving provides about 1.88g of protein.
How much dietary fiber is in a serving?
There is approximately 0.75g of fiber per serving.
Can I use freshly grated nutmeg?
Yes, using 1/2 teaspoon of freshly grated nutmeg is recommended for the best flavor profile.
What are the carbohydrate and sugar counts?
Each serving contains 22.5g of carbohydrates and 9.38g of sugar.
What consistency should the batter have before baking?
The batter should be a smooth, thick paste once all ingredients are combined.
When is Ontbijtkoek typically served?
While it is a popular breakfast bread, it is also a cherished holiday treat for chilly winter days.
How long should I cool the loaf after removing it from the oven?
After the initial 30-minute cool-down in the oven, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Is ground cardamom necessary?
Yes, 1/2 teaspoon of ground cardamom is a key part of the aromatic spice blend.
What are some common tags for this recipe?
Common tags include dutch bread, holiday bread, gingerbread, and molasses bread.
Can I use ground ginger instead of fresh?
The recipe specifically calls for 1 teaspoon of ground ginger, and suggests freshly ground for a more intense flavor.