This Halloween Brimstone Bread is a fun and spooky treat! With a bright orange color and a hint of pumpkin spice, it’s perfect for the season. Plus, it’s easy to make!
Baking this bread fills the kitchen with a cozy smell. I love slicing it up warm and spreading a bit of butter—it’s a real autumn delight! Give it a try and impress your friends!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-purpose flour: This forms the base of your bread. If you need a gluten-free option, substitute with a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum for better texture.
Active dry yeast: Essential for rising. You can substitute with instant yeast without changing the quantity, as it doesn’t require proofing.
Warm milk: It activates the yeast. If dairy-free, use any plant-based milk, and warm it slightly before mixing.
Butter: Adds flavor and moisture. You can replace it with coconut oil or margarine for a dairy-free option.
Red food coloring: For that spooky color! If you prefer natural alternatives, try beet juice for a reddish tint or omit it for a simpler bread look.
How Do I Get the Perfect Crust for My Bread?
Getting that spooky brimstone look is all about technique! You want a crust that cracks beautifully while the inner bread stays soft. Here’s how:
- When mixing the crust, ensure it’s a thick paste—not too runny. This thickness helps form that rifted look.
- Spread it generously on top of each dough ball; don’t be shy! A thicker layer will crack more dramatically during baking.
- When baking, keep an eye on it; if you want a darker finish, broil at the end but watch closely to prevent burning.
Letting the dough rest after shaping allows for additional oven spring, making the crust even more appealing!
Halloween Brimstone Bread
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bread Dough:
- 2 ½ cups (315 g) all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- ¾ cup (180 ml) warm milk (about 110°F/43°C)
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
For the “Brimstone” Crust:
- ½ cup (65 g) all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ⅓ cup (67 g) granulated sugar
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- 2-3 tsp red food coloring (gel or liquid)
- 1 tsp cocoa powder (for black cracked texture)
Optional:
- Extra sugar for sprinkling on top
How Much Time Will You Need?
This whimsical Halloween bread requires about 15 minutes of prep time and around 1 hour for the dough to rise, plus an additional 20-30 minutes for the final proof. Baking takes about 18-22 minutes, making it a perfect treat to prepare while getting into the holiday spirit!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Bread Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk and sugar, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Next, sprinkle the yeast over the mixture and let it rest for 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy. This step ensures the yeast is active. Add the melted butter, egg, salt, and the flour. Mix and knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes until it is smooth and elastic. Once done, place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and allow it to rise for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
2. Prepare the Brimstone Crust:
In a separate bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, sugar, and cocoa powder. Add the softened butter and use your fingers or a fork to combine it well until it forms a crumbly mixture. Gradually incorporate the red food coloring until you achieve a bright, blood-red hue. The texture should be a thick paste that’s spreadable but not too runny.
3. Shape the Bread:
Once the bread dough has finished rising, gently punch it down to release any air bubbles and then divide it into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and place them spaced out on a parchment-lined baking tray.
4. Apply the Brimstone Crust:
Take pieces of the red and black topping paste and spread a generous layer over the top of each dough ball. Get creative—use a knife to make random shallow cuts or cracks through the topping, allowing it to crack in a spooky way during baking!
5. Final Proof:
Let the dough balls rest for an additional 20-30 minutes so they can rise slightly before baking.
6. Bake:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the bread for about 18-22 minutes, or until the crust topping is cracked and has a deep color, similar to brimstone, and the bread is cooked through. If you’re aiming for a darker crust, you can briefly switch the oven to broil for the last 1-2 minutes—just keep a close eye to prevent burning!
7. Serve:
Allow the bread to cool slightly on a rack. This spooky treat is best enjoyed warm and sliced, where the soft interior contrasting with the crunchy, cracked ‘brimstone’ crust makes it all the more delightful!
Enjoy baking this extraordinary Halloween Brimstone Bread and impress your guests with its eerie appearance and delicious flavor! Perfect for adding a festive touch to your Halloween gatherings!
Can I Use Different Flours for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use whole wheat flour for a heartier bread, but the texture may be denser. For a gluten-free version, substitute with a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum for good structure.
How Do I Store Leftover Brimstone Bread?
Store any leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want it to last longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw and warm it in the oven or toaster.
What Can I Use Instead of Red Food Coloring?
If you prefer a natural option, try using beet juice for a red hue. Just keep in mind it may slightly alter the flavor. You can also omit the color entirely for a simpler bread.
How Can I Ensure My Bread Rises Properly?
Make sure your yeast is fresh and activated properly; it should be bubbly after 5-10 minutes in warm milk. Also, keep your dough in a warm environment while it rises; a slightly warm oven or a cozy corner of your kitchen works great!
