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Tea bread doughs are richer than the traditional white bread dough although the ingredients and techniques are basically the same.

Milk is used instead of water, butter or margarine replaces the oil, and an egg is added to produce a sweet white bread or basic enriched dough as it is more usually called. The dough can be used as it is or, after rising, extra ingredients and flavorings can be added to make a variety of different tea breads and buns.

Sweet breads are baked on a greased surface instead of a floured baking sheet and finishes also differ from those used for ordinary white bread. Shiny and sometimes sweet glazes are added towards the end of cooking time or after baking is completed. Beaten egg, melted honey or butter, and a mixture of milk and sugar are among the most popular glazes.

This is the recipe for making the basic tea bread. Once you have mastered this recipe, you can find your favorite tea bread to add other ingredients such as dried fruits, brown sugar, cinnamon, or chopped nuts. Just use your imaginations and your own personal tastes when baking your bread.

Basic Enriched White Bread For Making Tea Breads:

Ingredients

• 16 ounces plain white four
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 2 teaspoons dried yeast
• 8 ounces warm milk
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 ounces butter or margarine
• 1 egg

Method

In a large bowl, blend together sugar, milk, yeast and half of the flour to make a batter. Leave this for about 20 minutes until the yeast becomes frothy. In a separate bowl, mix the remaining flour with the salt and blend in the butter. Beat the egg and add it to the frothy batter together with the flour mixture and mix well to make a soft dough which leaves the sides of the bowl clean.

Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead until smooth, for about 10 minutes. Now place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover and leave to let it rise until it has doubled in size. After is has doubled, punch it down with a fist and knead it again for 2-3 minutes.

Now your dough is ready for you to turn into your favorite tea bread shape and flavor. Just add your ingredients to your dough, shape and bake. Once the bread has baked and the aroma has filled your house, relax and enjoy the fresh taste of your delicious homemade tea bread. This bread is a wonderful gift during the holiday season for all of your friends and family to enjoy.