Watermelon Lookalike Bread: A Delightful Christmas Treat - VLOGMAS DAY 4

 

I had so much fun making this bread! Want to trick your mind that you're eating a healthy fruit? This is it, Watermelon lookalike bread, tastes amazing and has nothing to do with having the watermelon taste. If you're on the hunt for a fun and visually striking baking project that's perfect for Christmas morning gatherings, look no further than our Watermelon Lookalike Bread recipe. This whimsical creation is not only a feast for the eyes but also a treat for your taste buds. Imagine the surprise on your friends' and family's faces when they slice into what appears to be a giant watermelon, only to discover it's a delicious bread! In this blog post, we'll guide you through the process of making this delightful bread step by step. Whether you're an experienced baker or a novice in the kitchen, you'll find this recipe both enjoyable and rewarding.

Who is this Recipe For?

This Watermelon Lookalike Bread is perfect for anyone who enjoys baking and wants to impress their loved ones with a unique and charming treat. It's an excellent project for a lazy summer weekend when you have a bit more time to spend in the kitchen. Baking enthusiasts, creative cooks, and parents looking for a fun activity with their kids will all find joy in making this bread. Plus, it's an ideal addition to picnics, BBQs, or any summer gathering where you want to stand out with your culinary prowess.

What makes this Watermelon Lookalike Bread so special? Here are a few reasons:

• Visual Appeal

The watermelon-inspired design is an absolute showstopper. With vibrant red and green colors and specks of raisins mimicking watermelon seeds, it's a treat that's almost too pretty to eat. Almost.

• Versatility

While it's perfect for summer, you can enjoy this bread year-round. It's a conversation starter at parties and a delightful surprise for kids and adults alike.

• Delicious Flavor

Beyond its striking appearance, this bread offers a moist and tender crumb with hints of sweetness from the raisins. It's the perfect balance of flavors to accompany your favorite spreads or enjoy on its own.

• Baking Adventure

If you're someone who loves to experiment in the kitchen, this recipe will satisfy your craving for a unique baking adventure. It's a fantastic way to flex your creative muscles and impress your friends and family.

INGREDIENTS

Ingredients You'll Need

Before diving into the process, let's gather our ingredients. Here's what you'll need to create your Watermelon Lookalike Bread:

• 3 Cups All-Purpose Flour
• 1 Cup Raisins
• Red Food Coloring
• Green Food Coloring
• 1 Cup Milk
• 1/2 Tablespoon Butter
• 2 1/4 Teaspoon Yeast (8g)
• 1 Egg
• 1/4 Cup Sugar
• 3/4 Teaspoon Salt

Kitchen Equipment

To make this delightful bread, you'll need the following kitchen equipment:

• Stand mixer or mixing bowls and a wooden spoon
• Plastic wrap or a kitchen towel
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Pastry brush
• Knife or bench scraper
• Small bowls for food coloring
• Oven

Directions

Now, let's get into the nitty-gritty of making your Watermelon Lookalike Bread. Follow these step-by-step instructions for a successful bake:

Step 1: Prepare Your Yeast Mixture

1. Warm the milk until it's lukewarm, then stir in the yeast and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl or the bowl of your stand mixer, combine the flour, sugar, and salt.
2. Add the yeast mixture, egg, and melted butter to the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

1. Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until it's smooth and elastic.

Step 4: Divide and Color the Dough

1. Divide the dough into two equal portions.
2. In one portion, knead in red food coloring until you achieve the desired watermelon red hue. In the other, knead in green food coloring for the watermelon rind color.

Step 5: Let the Dough Rise

1. Place each colored dough in separate greased bowls, cover them with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel, and let them rise for about an hour, or until they've doubled in size.

Step 6: Shape the Watermelon

1. Punch down the risen dough and roll each portion into a rectangle.
2. Place the green dough on top of the red one, leaving a small border of red around the edges.
3. Sprinkle raisins evenly over the green dough.
4. Roll up the dough tightly, starting from the long edge.
5. Pinch the seams to seal the dough.

Step 7: Bake

1. Place your shaped watermelon bread on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
2. Cover it loosely with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
3. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while the bread is rising.
4. Remove the plastic wrap or towel and use a pastry brush to lightly brush the top of the bread with milk for a golden crust.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the bread is beautifully golden brown.
6. Let it cool on a wire rack before slicing.

Notes

• Experiment with the amount of food coloring to achieve the perfect watermelon colors. Remember, a little goes a long way.
• Feel free to add your favorite nuts or seeds for extra texture and flavor.
• For a sweeter version, you can increase the sugar in the dough.

FAQs

Can I make this bread ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough the night before and let it rise in the refrigerator overnight. Then, shape and bake it the next day.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any remaining watermelon bread in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also freeze slices for longer storage.