Michalak Fluffy Spice Bread

Description:
Michalak Fluffy Spice Bread is a light and tender loaf bursting with warm, aromatic spices. Named after the renowned French pastry chef, Christophe Michalak, this bread is a delightful blend of sophistication and homey comfort. Perfect with a cup of tea or coffee, it’s a versatile treat that can be enjoyed plain or with a spread of butter or cream cheese.

Ingredients (Makes 1 Loaf)

For the Bread:

• All-purpose flour: 2 ½ cups (310 g)
• Baking powder: 1 ½ tsp
• Baking soda: ½ tsp
• Salt: ½ tsp
• Ground cinnamon: 1 tsp
• Ground nutmeg: ½ tsp
• Ground ginger: ½ tsp
• Ground cloves: ¼ tsp
• Unsalted butter (softened): ½ cup (1 stick or 115 g)
• Brown sugar (packed): ¾ cup (150 g)
• Granulated sugar: ¼ cup (50 g)
• Eggs: 2 large
• Vanilla extract: 1 tsp
• Buttermilk: ¾ cup (180 ml)

Optional Glaze:

• Powdered sugar: ¾ cup (90 g)
• Milk: 2 tbsp
• Vanilla extract: ½ tsp

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Batter

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch (23×13 cm) loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy (about 3 minutes).
4. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture in three additions, alternating with the buttermilk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined (do not overmix).

Step 2: Bake the Bread

1. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
2. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
3. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 3: Optional Glaze

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
2. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled bread. Let it set before slicing.

Tips for Success:

• Spices: Adjust the spice levels to your preference. Add a pinch of cardamom or allspice for an extra layer of flavor.
• Buttermilk Substitute: If you don’t have buttermilk, mix ¾ cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
• Moisture: For extra moisture, fold in ½ cup of grated apple or mashed banana to the batter.

Recommendations:

• Serving Suggestions: Enjoy this bread with butter, honey, or cream cheese. It pairs wonderfully with tea or coffee.
• Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
• Freezing: Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Nutrition (Per Slice, based on 10 slices):

• Calories: ~230
• Protein: 4 g
• Fat: 10 g
• Carbohydrates: 31 g
• Sugar: 15 g
• Fiber: 1 g

Michalak Fluffy Spice Bread is a warm, aromatic delight that brings a touch of French elegance to your kitchen! ✨