There’s something so comforting about the smell of fresh-baked bread wafting through the kitchen. It wraps you in a cozy embrace, just like a warm hug. Today, I’m excited to share my latest favorite: Glazed Bittersweet Orange Twists. These delightful twists are not just bread; they’re an invitation to slow down and enjoy each moment. Perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack, they also bring a little zest and sunshine to your day.

why make this recipe

Why make these twisted treats? Well, they combine the comforting elements of sweet bread with the refreshing zing of orange. The glaze adds a luscious finish that makes each bite a little piece of heaven. Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to make! Whether you’re new to bread baking or just looking for a fun weekend project, these twists will make your kitchen feel like a bakery. Plus, who wouldn’t want to impress friends and family with a warm batch of homemade goodies?

how to make Glazed Bittersweet Orange Twists | Sweet Bread Recipes, Homemade Bread Recipes, Recipes

Ingredients:

4 cups all-purpose flour
1 packet (2¼ tsp) active dry yeast
½ cup granulated sugar
1 tsp salt
1 cup milk
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
1 large egg
Zest of 1 orange
¼ cup fresh orange juice
1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
2-3 tbsp orange juice (for glaze)

Glazed Bittersweet Orange Twists | Sweet Bread Recipes, Homemade Bread Recipes, Recipes

Directions:

In a bowl, combine flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Mix well.
In another bowl, whisk milk, melted butter, egg, zest, and juice together.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir until a dough forms.
Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth.
Place the dough in a greased bowl. Cover it with a towel and let it rise for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Punch down the risen dough and roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle.
Cut the dough into strips. Twist each strip and place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
For the glaze, mix powdered sugar with orange juice until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the warm twists.

how to serve Glazed Bittersweet Orange Twists | Sweet Bread Recipes, Homemade Bread Recipes, Recipes

These Glazed Bittersweet Orange Twists are perfect on their own, but they’re great with a cup of coffee or tea. I love serving them warm, straight from the oven, with a side of fresh fruit. They even make a lovely addition to brunch spreads alongside something like fluffy homemade pancakes.

how to store Glazed Bittersweet Orange Twists | Sweet Bread Recipes, Homemade Bread Recipes, Recipes

To keep these twists fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay tasty for about 2-3 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap first. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them and reheat a bit in the oven for that fresh-baked taste!

tips to make Glazed Bittersweet Orange Twists | Sweet Bread Recipes, Homemade Bread Recipes, Recipes

Make sure your yeast is fresh and active. Check for bubbles when you mix it with warm milk!
Don’t skip the orange zest. It really brightens up the flavor and aroma.
If you like a sweeter treat, add a dash of cinnamon to the dough. It pairs beautifully with the orange.
For a twist (pun intended!), try adding some chocolate chips or walnuts to the dough before baking. They complement the orange flavor beautifully!

variation (if any)

Feel free to experiment with other citrus fruits! Lemon or lime can also create delightful variations. You could even make a delightful batch of cinnamon rolls using the same dough for another fun twist on this recipe.

FAQs

Can I use whole wheat flour?
Absolutely! Whole wheat flour adds a nutty flavor. Just keep in mind that the texture may be a bit denser. You might need to adjust the liquid slightly.

Can I make these ahead of time?
Sure! You can prepare the dough, let it rise, and shape the twists. Cover them and refrigerate for up to 8 hours. Just let them come to room temperature before baking!

What if I have leftover glaze?
Don’t worry! Leftover glaze can be stored in the fridge for a short time. Use it on pancakes, waffles, or even drizzled over fresh fruit for a sweet treat.

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