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Saffron Bread

A fragrant and tender bread infused with saffron that brings warmth and joy to any gathering.
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 55 minutes
Servings: 10 servings
Course: Bread, Snack
Cuisine: Global
Calories: 180

Ingredients
  

Dough Ingredients
  • 250 ml non-dairy milk or regular dairy milk Choose your preference for this base; both options work beautifully.
  • 1 pinch saffron threads (~½ gram) Invest in good quality saffron for the best color and flavor. Look for deep red threads.
  • 3 tablespoons coconut oil (melted) Adds richness and moisture to the dough.
  • 2 tablespoons honey or sugar For sweetness; honey offers a floral note, while sugar provides classic sweetness.
  • 2 ¼ teaspoons dry yeast or ½ cube fresh yeast Yeast is crucial for fluffy texture.
  • 450 grams light spelt flour Adds a nutty flavor profile; can substitute with whole wheat.
  • ½ teaspoon sea salt Balances sweetness and enhances flavors.
Filling Ingredients
  • 2 tablespoons coconut oil (softened) For spreading onto the dough.
  • 50 grams dark sugar Rich sweetness complements the saffron; brown sugar works too.
  • 50 grams dark chocolate (chopped) Optional but adds a welcome flavor.
  • 50 grams dates (finely chopped) Brings natural sweetness and chewiness.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a small saucepan over low-medium heat, combine the non-dairy or dairy milk with the saffron threads. Stir occasionally until just simmering.
  2. Once heated, whisk in the coconut oil and honey until fully melted, then pour the mixture into a large heatproof bowl.
  3. Allow the milk mixture to cool until warm to the touch (about 37°C/98°F). Whisk in the yeast and let it rest for 15 minutes until frothy.
  4. Stir in 1 cup of flour and the sea salt into the yeast mixture. Gradually add the remaining flour in ½ cup increments until the dough becomes too tough to mix with a wooden spoon.
  5. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about eight minutes by hand or five to six minutes using a stand mixer. You want a soft, smooth dough.
  6. Place the kneaded dough back into a lightly greased bowl. Cover with a plate or damp towel and set in a warm area to rise until doubled in size (about 1 hour).
Filling and Shaping
  1. Prepare your filling by mixing together the softened coconut oil, dark sugar, chopped chocolate, and dates in a small bowl.
  2. Once risen, turn the dough onto a floured surface and roll it out into a rectangle about 1.5 cm (¾ inch) thickness.
  3. Spread the filling evenly over the dough.
  4. Roll the dough lengthwise into a log and cut it lengthwise down the center, keeping the top uncut.
  5. Twist the two pieces around each other and bring the ends together to form a circle.
  6. Transfer the shaped wreath to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover with a tea towel and let it proof for 30 minutes.
Baking
  1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Once proofed, bake for about 30 minutes or until golden brown and hollow when tapped.
  2. Transfer to a wire rack and allow to cool for 20 minutes before slicing.

Notes

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for a week. Can be frozen for up to 3 months. Adjust sweetness levels to personal preference.