California Sunshine Bread

California Sunshine Bread Recipe - A Taste of the Golden State

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 2 hours | Cooking time: 45 minutes | Servings: 1 loaf

Introduction

California Sunshine Bread is a delightful and citrusy bread that is perfect for breakfast or as a snack. The combination of fresh orange juice and grated orange and lemon rinds gives this bread a bright and sunny flavor that will surely brighten up your day.

History

This recipe for California Sunshine Bread has been passed down through generations in California, where citrus fruits are abundant. The use of fresh orange juice and citrus rinds in this bread reflects the sunny and vibrant flavors of the region.

Ingredients

0.25 cup lukewarm water (110 – 115°F or 46°C)
3 tbsp sugar (needed for yeast action)
1 pack instant active dry yeast
0.67 cup fresh orange juice (warmed to room temperature)
2.5 cup unsifted all-purpose flour
1 tsp salt
3 tbsp melted margarine
1 tbsp finely grated orange rind
1 tsp finely grated lemon rind
2 tsp vegetable oil (to oil pans)

How to prepare

In a large bowl, combine lukewarm water, sugar, and dry yeast. Stir until the yeast is completely dissolved.
Add warm orange juice to the mixture and beat until well blended.
Gradually add 1 cup of flour, beating gently until smooth.
Cover the bowl and place it in a warm area for 30-40 minutes, or until the mixture becomes bubbly and light.
Add salt, margarine, and grated orange and lemon rinds to the mixture. Beat gently to mix.
Gradually stir in the remaining flour, mixing well.
Transfer the mixture onto a lightly floured board and knead for about 10 minutes, until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a large, oiled bowl, turning it around to coat it with oil.
Cover the bowl and let the dough rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until it doubles in size.
Punch the dough down in several places, then knead it on the board for 5 minutes.
Shape the dough into a loaf and place it in an oiled 8.5" x 4.5" x 2.5" loaf pan.
Cover the pan and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1 hour.
Preheat the oven to 375°F (191°C).
Once the bread has risen, bake it for 35-45 minutes.
When done, remove the bread from the pan and let it cool on a wire rack.

Variations

Add a handful of dried cranberries or raisins to the dough for a sweeter and fruitier bread.
Sprinkle some chopped nuts on top of the bread before baking for added crunch and flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to use lukewarm water when activating the yeast to ensure that it activates properly.

- Knead the dough for at least 10 minutes to develop the gluten and create a light and airy texture.

- Let the dough rise in a warm place to ensure that it doubles in size and becomes light and fluffy.

- Be sure to preheat the oven to the correct temperature before baking the bread to ensure even baking.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy a slice of California Sunshine Bread toasted with a spread of butter or jam for breakfast or as a snack.

Cooking Techniques

Kneading the dough is essential to develop the gluten and create a light and airy texture.

- Letting the dough rise in a warm place is important to ensure that it doubles in size and becomes light and fluffy.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use butter instead of margarine in this recipe for a richer flavor.

- You can use lemon juice instead of orange juice for a different citrusy flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the dough for California Sunshine Bread ahead of time and let it rise in the refrigerator overnight. Just bring it to room temperature before shaping and baking.

Presentation Ideas

Serve slices of California Sunshine Bread on a wooden cutting board with a sprig of fresh mint for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Enjoy a slice of California Sunshine Bread with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a delightful breakfast or afternoon snack.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover California Sunshine Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To reheat, toast slices in a toaster or oven until warm.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of California Sunshine Bread contains approximately 150 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of California Sunshine Bread contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of California Sunshine Bread contains approximately 5 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of California Sunshine Bread contains approximately 3 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

California Sunshine Bread is a good source of vitamin C from the fresh orange juice and citrus rinds.

Alergens

This recipe contains gluten from the all-purpose flour. It may also contain traces of nuts if the bread is baked in a kitchen that handles nuts.

Summary

California Sunshine Bread is a delicious and nutritious bread that is relatively low in calories and fats. It is a good source of carbohydrates and vitamin C.

Summary

California Sunshine Bread is a delicious and citrusy bread that is perfect for breakfast or as a snack. With its bright and sunny flavors, this bread is sure to bring a ray of sunshine to your day.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the thrill of stumbling upon this recipe for California Sunshine Bread. It was a beautiful summer day, and I was visiting a quaint little bakery in the heart of San Francisco. The aroma of freshly baked bread filled the air, and I couldn't resist stepping inside to see what delicious treats they had to offer.

As I perused the shelves lined with loaves of bread in all shapes and sizes, one particular loaf caught my eye. It was a golden, sun-kissed bread with a hint of sweetness and a subtle tanginess that seemed to beckon me closer. I couldn't resist asking the baker about this unique bread, and he was more than happy to share the recipe with me.

He explained that California Sunshine Bread was a local favorite, made with a combination of whole wheat flour, honey, and orange zest. The bread was dense and hearty, perfect for toasting and slathering with butter or jam. I knew immediately that I had to try making it myself.

With the recipe in hand, I returned home eager to recreate the delicious bread I had tasted at the bakery. I gathered all the ingredients and set to work, kneading the dough until it was smooth and elastic. The sweet scent of honey and citrus filled my kitchen as the bread baked in the oven, turning a beautiful golden brown.

When the bread was finally done, I couldn't wait to taste it. I sliced off a piece while it was still warm, spreading it with a generous amount of butter. The first bite was heavenly - the bread was moist and flavorful, with a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness.

I shared the bread with my family, who were equally impressed with its delicious taste and texture. They couldn't believe that I had made it myself, and they begged me to make it again soon. And so, California Sunshine Bread became a staple in our household, a recipe that I would make time and time again.

Over the years, I have shared the recipe with friends and neighbors, who have all fallen in love with the sunny bread. Each time I make it, I am reminded of that fateful day in the bakery in San Francisco, and how a chance encounter led me to discover a recipe that would become a beloved tradition in my family.

As I pass on this recipe to you, my dear grandchild, I hope that you will enjoy making California Sunshine Bread as much as I have. May it bring warmth and joy to your home, just as it has to mine. And remember, the secret ingredient is always a little bit of sunshine and love.