Description
Dandelion Bread is a unique and flavorful homemade bread incorporating fresh dandelion petals for a subtle floral note. This loaf combines the rustic charm of whole ingredients with a tender crumb, perfect for a natural and herbal twist on classic bread. Ideal for those looking to bake with foraged ingredients and enjoy a slightly sweet, fragrant bread either warm or toasted.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (or whole wheat flour for a more rustic bread)
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup sugar (or honey for a more natural sweetness)
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup milk (or almond milk for dairy-free)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted (or coconut oil for a dairy-free option)
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, for extra flavor)
Fresh Ingredient
- 2 cups fresh dandelion petals (about 2 cups of dandelion flowers, petals separated from green stems)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dandelion Petals: Carefully pick dandelion flowers ensuring they are free of pesticides or contaminants. Separate the yellow petals from the green stems, discarding the stems and keeping only the petals. Measure about 2 cups of petals for the recipe.
- Preheat the Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar until evenly combined. This helps the bread rise uniformly.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, melted butter, beaten egg, and vanilla extract if using. Fold in the dandelion petals, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the wet mixture.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Slowly pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredient bowl. Stir gently with a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to maintain a tender, light crumb.
- Transfer Batter to Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it out evenly so it bakes uniformly.
- Bake the Bread: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and serve warm, or toast slices for a delightful crunch.
Notes
- Ensure dandelion petals are picked from pesticide-free zones.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute milk with almond milk and butter with coconut oil.
- Do not overmix the batter to prevent dense bread.
- You can replace sugar with honey for a more natural sweetness, but reduce liquids slightly if necessary.
- Store bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze slices for longer storage.