Portuguese Sweet Bread Recipe
Portuguese Sweet Bread
Portuguese Sweet Bread (often called Massa Sovada) is a soft, lightly sweet yeast bread enriched with butter, milk, and eggs. This version makes two round loaves baked in 9-inch skillets—great for holidays or anytime you want a tender homemade bread. A straightforward guide to making traditional Portuguese Sweet Bread, also known as Massa Sovada. This classic yeast bread, with its soft, fluffy texture and subtle sweetness, hails from Portuguese culinary traditions and has become a beloved staple in many households, especially during holidays like Easter.
Portuguese Sweet Bread
Ingredients two packages active dry yeast1 cup plus one teaspoon granulated sugar
1/2 cup lukewarm water
1/2 cup softened butter 1/2 cup warm milk
4 eggs, lightly beaten
1 tablespoon salt
4 to 4 and 1/2 cups flour
Preheat oven 350 degrees
Instructions
Combine the yeast, 1 teaspoon sugar, and water in a large bowl and allow to proof. Put the butter in the warm milk, add 1 cup
sugar, and blend well. Add to the yeast mixture and stir to combine ingredients. Add three of the eggs, lightly beaten, and salt and mix well.
Then add four cups of flour, one cup at a time, kneading with your hands in the bowl, to make a soft dough. Turn out on a floured board and knead
until dough is smooth and elastic, using only enough additional flour to prevent sticking. This should take about 10 minutes. Shape into a ball and
put in a buttered bowl, turning the dough to coat the surface with butter. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm, drafty free place until
double in bulk. Punch down the dough and divided into two equal pieces. Shape again into a ball and place in two 9 inch buttered skillets. Cover
loosely and let rise again until doubled in bulk. Brush the tops with the remaining egg, well beaten, and bake in 350 degree oven for 30 minutes,
or until the bread is rich, dark color, and sounds hollow when rapped on top and bottom. Cool on racks before slicing.
Total Cook Time - 30 minutes
Equipment - two 9 inch buttered skillets
Servings about 8-10+ servings
Portuguese Sweet Bread FAQ
Why do you proof the yeast first?
Proofing confirms the yeast is active and helps the dough rise properly.
Why is this bread made with butter, milk, and eggs?
These enriched ingredients create a softer crumb, tender texture, and lightly sweet flavor.
What does “sounds hollow when rapped” mean?
Tap the baked loaf—if it sounds hollow, the inside is likely baked through.
Can I bake this in loaf pans instead of skillets?
Usually yes, but baking time may change. Bake until browned and a tester comes out clean.
How should Portuguese sweet bread be stored?
Wrap tightly or store in an airtight container at room temperature for 2–3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
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