Sugar-topped bread

Here’s a simple and delicious recipe for Sugar-Topped Bread—soft, slightly sweet bread with a crunchy, sugary topping.

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Ingredients (Makes 1 loaf)

For the bread:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
• ¼ cup sugar
• 1 tsp salt
• ¾ cup warm milk (110°F / 43°C)
• 2 tbsp butter, melted
• 1 large egg

For the sugar topping:

• 2 tbsp butter, melted
• 2–3 tbsp sugar (granulated or coarse)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the dough:
   • In a small bowl, dissolve yeast in warm milk and let sit 5–10 minutes until frothy.
   • In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, and salt.
   • Add yeast mixture, melted butter, and egg. Stir until dough forms.
2. Knead:
   • Knead on a floured surface 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
3. First rise:
   • Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise 1–2 hours until doubled.
4. Shape the loaf:
   • Punch down the dough and shape into a loaf. Place in a greased loaf pan.
5. Add topping:
   • Brush melted butter over the top of the loaf.
   • Sprinkle generously with sugar.
6. Second rise:
   • Cover and let rise 30–45 minutes until slightly puffy.
7. Bake:
   • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Bake 25–30 minutes until golden brown.
   • Optional: tent with foil if browning too quickly.
8. Cool:
   • Remove from pan and cool on a wire rack before slicing.

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Tips & Variations

• Use cinnamon sugar for a sweet-spiced topping.
• Add raisins, chopped nuts, or dried fruit into the dough for extra flavor.
• Brush top with honey or maple syrup for a sticky-sweet crust.

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✅ Serving Idea: Slice warm with butter, jam, or cream cheese for breakfast or an afternoon treat.

I can also give a quick no-yeast sugar-topped bread that’s ready in under an hour if you want a faster version.