Indulge in Decadence: Stout Chocolate-Cherry Bread Recipe

Welcome to my kitchen, where we are about to embark on a culinary adventure that will tantalize your taste buds and satisfy your sweet tooth. Today, I am sharing with you my recipe for Stout Chocolate-Cherry Bread. This bread recipe combines the rich, malty flavor of Guinness Stout with the sweet and tart taste of dried cherries and bittersweet chocolate, creating a delectable treat that is perfect for any time of the day.

As a chef, I have always loved experimenting with different ingredients to create unique and delicious recipes. This Stout Chocolate-Cherry Bread recipe is one of my favorites, and I am excited to share it with you. Whether you are a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is easy to follow and will yield a bread that is moist, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion.

In this article, I will guide you through the recipe step by step, providing tips and recommendations along the way to ensure that your bread turns out perfectly. I will also share with you some variations and substitutions that you can make to customize the recipe to your liking. So, let’s jump right into the recipe and discover the magic of Stout Chocolate-Cherry Bread.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Are you a fan of chocolate and cherries? Perhaps you enjoy a good stout beer? Well, then this Stout Chocolate-Cherry Bread recipe is definitely for you!

The combination of bittersweet chocolate chunks and tart dried cherries mixed into a soft, fluffy bread with a hint of stout beer is simply irresistible. The flavors are perfectly balanced, creating a delightful treat for your taste buds.

This bread is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even as a dessert. It’s rich and indulgent, yet not too sweet, making it a versatile option that can be enjoyed at any time of the day.

Furthermore, this recipe is easy to follow and doesn’t require any special equipment. All you need are some basic ingredients like bread flour, dry yeast, sugar, salt, and of course, a bottle of Guinness Stout.

So, whether you’re a bread-making pro or just starting out, this recipe is a must-try. It’s a unique twist on traditional bread recipes and is sure to impress anyone who tries it. Trust me, once you taste this scrumptious chocolate cherry bread, you’ll be hooked!

Ingredient List

Before we jump into the recipe, let’s take a look at the ingredients you’ll need to make this Stout Chocolate-Cherry Bread. Here’s what you’ll need:

Dry Ingredients:

• 4 1/4 cups bread flour, divided 1 1/2 cups and 2 3/4 cups
• 1 1/2 cups dried tart cherries, coarsely chopped
• 1/2 cup bittersweet chocolate, coarsely chopped
• 1/4 cup cocoa powder
• 4 teaspoons dry yeast
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups stout beer (such as Guinness)
• 1/4 cup water

Others:

• 1 egg, lightly beaten for egg wash

Make sure to have all the ingredients on hand before starting the recipe.

The Recipe How-To

Now that we have all the ingredients ready, let’s jump into the recipe! This Stout Chocolate-Cherry Bread recipe is a perfect combination of sweet and bitter flavors. The chocolate and cherry flavor in the bread are enhanced by the Guinness stout beer. Here is how to make this delicious bread:

Step 1: Mix the Yeast and Sugar

In a large bowl, mix together 1/4 cup warm water, 1 tablespoon granulated sugar, and 1 packet of dry yeast. Set aside for 5 to 10 minutes until the yeast is frothy.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In another large bowl, whisk together 4 cups bread flour, 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon baking powder, and 2 teaspoons salt.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a medium saucepan, heat 1 1/2 cups Guinness stout beer with 3 tablespoons of sugar and 1 cup dried tart cherries. Cook on medium heat until the sugar dissolves and the cherries are plump. Add in 7 ounces bittersweet chocolate, and stir until melted and combined.

Step 4: Combine the Mixtures

Add the yeast mixture to the dry ingredients and mix well. Gradually add the cherry chocolate mixture and stir until well combined. Knead the dough on a floured surface until it becomes smooth and elastic, about 10 minutes.

Step 5: Let the Dough Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover with a damp cloth. Allow the dough to rise in a warm place for 1 to 2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

Step 6: Bake the Bread

Preheat the oven to 375°F. Grease a 9-inch loaf pan. Punch the dough down and shape it into a loaf. Place the loaf into the pan and let it rise again for 20-30 minutes. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes or until the bread is golden brown.

Congratulations! You have just made a delicious Stout Chocolate-Cherry Bread. Enjoy it warm or at room temperature with a slather of butter.

Substitutions and Variations

There are several ways to make this stout chocolate-cherry bread recipe your own. Here are some substitutions and variations to try:

– Chocolate Swirl Bread: Add 1/4 cup of cocoa powder to the dough and swirl in 1/2 cup of chopped bittersweet chocolate before baking.

– Cherry Focaccia: Use the same dough recipe, but flatten it into a large circle and dimple the surface with your fingers. Top with dried cherries, a drizzle of olive oil, and a sprinkle of coarse salt before baking.

– Chocolate Chip Cherry Bread: Replace the dried cherries with 1 cup of chopped fresh cherries and 1/2 cup of white chocolate chips.

– Pecan Cherry Bread: Add 1/2 cup of chopped pecans to the dough and replace the dried cherries with 1 cup of chopped fresh cherries.

– Rye Stout Bread: Replace 1 cup of the bread flour with rye flour for a heartier, earthier flavor.

– Soda Bread: Omit the yeast and baking powder and use 3 cups of self-rising flour instead. Mix in 1/2 cup of dried cherries and 1/2 cup of stout beer, then shape into a round loaf and bake until golden.

– Sourdough Cherry Bread: Use a sourdough starter instead of the dry yeast and increase the rising time to overnight in the fridge for a tangier flavor.

– British Bake Off-style Chocolate Cherry Bread: Follow Paul Hollywood’s recipe for chocolate cherry bread, which uses a rich chocolate dough and fresh cherries.

No matter which variation you choose, this bread recipe is sure to be a hit with anyone who loves the combination of chocolate and cherries. Experiment with different flavors and textures to find your perfect loaf.

Serving and Pairing

This Stout Chocolate-Cherry Bread recipe is a treat for the senses, and it’s perfect for serving at breakfast, brunch, or dessert. The bread is rich and decadent, with a deep chocolate flavor and bursts of tart cherry. It’s delicious on its own, but it’s even better when paired with some complementary flavors.

One great way to serve this bread is to slice it thickly and toast it lightly. Spread a little bit of butter or cream cheese on top, and enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea. The bitterness of the stout beer and the richness of the chocolate are offset by the tartness of the cherries, making for a perfectly balanced flavor.

Another great option is to turn this bread into a dessert. Cut it into small chunks and layer it with whipped cream and fresh cherries for an easy trifle. Or, slice it into rounds and use it to make chocolate-cherry bread pudding. The possibilities are endless!

As for pairing, this bread goes well with a variety of beverages. A glass of cold milk or a hot mug of cocoa make for a classic pairing. If you’re looking for something a little more adult, try serving it with a glass of red wine or a pint of stout beer.

Overall, this Stout Chocolate-Cherry Bread recipe is a versatile and delicious treat that is sure to please any crowd. Whether you’re serving it at a brunch or enjoying it as a dessert, this bread is sure to be a hit.

Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating

You can easily make this chocolate cherry bread ahead of time and store it for later. To make ahead, follow the recipe instructions and let the dough rise for the first time. Then punch it down and shape it into a loaf. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.

When you’re ready to bake the bread, take it out of the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to an hour. Then, preheat your oven and bake the bread as directed in the recipe. This is a great option if you want to serve fresh bread for breakfast or brunch without having to wake up early to make it.

Storing this chocolate cherry bread is easy. Simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it for longer, you can also freeze it for up to 2-3 months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in freezer-safe plastic wrap or aluminum foil.

Reheating this bread is quick and easy too. Just slice it and toast it in a toaster or toaster oven until it’s warm and crispy. You can also reheat it in the oven at 350°F for about 5-10 minutes. Serve it with butter, jam or your favorite spread for a delicious snack or breakfast treat.

Keep in mind that this bread is best enjoyed fresh, but it still tastes amazing even after a few days. If you’re looking for a make-ahead breakfast or brunch option, this chocolate cherry bread is a great choice.

Tips for Perfect Results

When it comes to baking bread, attention to detail is key. Here are some tips to ensure that your Stout Chocolate-Cherry Bread comes out perfectly every time.

Firstly, be sure to measure all ingredients accurately. This is especially important when it comes to the flour, as too much or too little can affect the texture of the bread. Use a kitchen scale if possible, as measuring cups can vary in size.

Secondly, use high-quality ingredients. The bittersweet chocolate and dried tart cherries provide a lot of the flavor in this recipe, so make sure to use the best you can find. The Guinness Stout is also a crucial ingredient, so be sure to use a quality brand.

Thirdly, make sure to proof the yeast before adding it to the dough. This involves mixing the yeast with warm water and sugar until it becomes frothy. If the yeast doesn’t foam, it may be inactive and will need to be replaced.

Fourthly, don’t rush the rising process. The dough needs time to rise properly in order to develop its flavor and texture. Be patient and allow it to rise in a warm, draft-free place.

Fifthly, when shaping the dough into a loaf, be gentle and avoid overworking it. This can cause the bread to become tough and dense.

Sixthly, preheat your oven properly and bake the bread on a lower rack. This will ensure that the bottom of the bread is fully cooked and not underdone.

Lastly, allow the bread to cool completely before slicing. This will prevent it from becoming gummy and will allow the flavors to fully develop.

By following these tips, you’ll be able to create a delicious and impressive Stout Chocolate-Cherry Bread every time.

Bottom Line

In conclusion, the Stout Chocolate-Cherry Bread recipe is a delightful treat for any occasion. With its rich and indulgent flavors, this bread is sure to be a hit with chocolate and cherry lovers alike. The combination of bittersweet chocolate and dried tart cherries creates a perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors that will leave you wanting more.

Don’t let the inclusion of stout beer in the recipe intimidate you. It adds a unique depth of flavor and richness to the bread that cannot be replicated with any other ingredient. The recipe is straightforward and easy to follow, and the end result is a beautiful and delicious loaf of bread that will impress your family and friends.

Whether you’re looking for a special treat for a holiday brunch or a simple dessert to enjoy with your afternoon tea, this Stout Chocolate-Cherry Bread recipe is a perfect choice. So why not give it a try and indulge in the deliciousness of chocolate, cherries, and stout beer all in one bite? Trust me, your taste buds will thank you.

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