Avanti's Sweet Bread Recipe

Capture the magic of Avanti's Italian Restaurant in Bloomington, IL, with this irresistible sweet bread recipe! This recipe recreates the bakery's beloved bread, resulting in a soft, slightly sweet loaf perfect for dipping in olive oil or enjoying alongside your favorite pasta dish. Get ready to taste a slice of Bloomington!

Prep Time 30 mins
Cook Time 40 mins
Calories 471.6 kcal
Protein 23g
Rating 3.8 (10 Reviews)
Avanti's Sweet Bread 100

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Recipe adapted from Food.com. Standardized by Forktionary.

Ingredients for Avanti's Sweet Bread

  • 1 1/2 cups warm water
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 1/2 to 4 cups bread flour
  • 1/4 cup olive oil

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How to Make Avanti's Sweet Bread

  1. In a large bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water. Let stand undisturbed for 10 minutes until foamy.
  2. In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, eggs, salt, and sugar.
  3. Add the yeast mixture to the wet ingredients and whisk to combine.
  4. Gradually add flour, one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition until a shaggy dough forms.
  5. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
  6. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until doubled in size.
  7. Gently punch down the dough and knead it briefly on a lightly floured surface.
  8. Divide the dough in half. Shape each half into a 14-inch oblong loaf.
  9. Place the loaves on two greased baking sheets.
  10. Cover loosely with plastic wrap and let rise for another 50-60 minutes, or until almost doubled.
  11. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  12. Using a sharp knife, cut 3 diagonal slashes across the top of each loaf.
  13. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 190-200°F (88-93°C).
  14. Let cool completely on a wire rack before slicing and serving.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

13 g

Sugar

101g

Fat

3g

Carbs

32g

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