Ever wanted to impress your friends with homemade bread that looks as stunning as it tastes? This Japanese flower bread, known as ‘Bake No Hana,’ is a delightful treat that not only tastes great but also adds a beautiful touch to your table. It’s perfect for gatherings or a simple family dinner, making it a must-try recipe for any home baker.
Imagine pulling a loaf of soft, fluffy bread out of your oven, shaped like a flower, with a golden crust and a tender interior. This recipe is not only visually appealing but also offers a slightly sweet flavor that pairs wonderfully with butter or jam. Your kitchen will smell divine while it bakes, and your family will be eagerly waiting for a slice.
Overview of Japanese Flower Bread
Japanese Flower Bread, or ‘Bake No Hana,’ is not just another loaf of bread; it’s a feast for the eyes and the palate. The beautiful flower shape adds a unique touch, making it a centerpiece on any dining table.
The golden-brown crust, adorned with sesame seeds, gives it a rustic charm. Slicing into this bread reveals its fluffy, soft interior, which beckons you to enjoy a slice right away, perhaps with a pat of butter or a spoonful of jam.
What Makes Bake No Hana Special?
This bread is known for its slightly sweet flavor, which beautifully complements various spreads. Its soft texture makes it versatile for breakfast, brunch, or as a side dish for dinner.
The interactive nature of sharing flower-shaped bread adds a layer of enjoyment to gatherings. Each slice you cut showcases the artistry that goes into its creation, making it a delightful conversation starter at your next meal.
Preparing the Dough
Creating this enchanting bread starts with the dough. The combination of all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and instant yeast lays the foundation for its fluffy texture.
Incorporating warm milk, warm water, and melted butter into the mixture brings everything together. The inclusion of an egg enriches the dough, enhancing its flavor and texture. Kneading the dough is a crucial step, ensuring it develops the right elasticity before it gets its first rise.
Shaping the Bread
The transformation of dough into flower shapes is where the fun begins. After the initial rise, the dough is divided into equal portions, each shaped into small balls. Arranging these balls in a round baking pan creates the iconic flower appearance.
Allowing the dough to rise a second time is essential for achieving that perfect fluffy texture. It’s during this time that the dough relaxes and prepares for baking.
Baking and Serving
Preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C) is the last step before baking. Brushing the tops with an egg wash and sprinkling sesame seeds adds a delightful finish. The aroma that fills your kitchen as it bakes is simply irresistible.
Once golden brown, letting the bread cool slightly before serving helps maintain its structure. Enjoy it warm or at room temperature, ensuring everyone has the chance to savor its delightful texture and flavor.
Nutrition and Serving Suggestions
This recipe yields around eight slices, making it perfect for sharing with family and friends. With approximately 180 calories per slice, this bread packs flavor without overwhelming the palate.
Pair it with butter and jam for a classic taste or serve it alongside hearty soups and salads to elevate any meal. The options are endless, making Bake No Hana a beloved staple in Japanese cuisine.
Deliciously Soft Japanese Flower Bread Recipe
This Bake No Hana recipe yields a soft and fluffy bread that’s slightly sweet, making it a delightful addition to any meal. The unique flower shape not only adds visual appeal but also makes it a fun and interactive bread to share.
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons instant yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup warm milk
- 1/2 cup warm water
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 1 egg wash (1 egg + 1 tablespoon water) for brushing
- Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. In a separate bowl, mix warm milk, warm water, melted butter, and egg. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Shape the Bread: Once risen, punch down the dough and divide it into equal portions. Shape each portion into small balls and arrange them in a greased round baking pan to form a flower shape.
- Second Rise: Cover the pan with a cloth and let the shaped dough rise again for about 30 minutes.
- Preheat and Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush the tops of the dough with the egg wash and sprinkle with sesame seeds if using. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes (includes rising time)
- Servings: 8 slices
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Fat: 7g
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 25g