I think I have just invented something new! When searching Citrus Bread on google, the main results were cakes or enriched bread loaves, which was not what mine was and therefore made me think I have created something original. I’m sure I am right in thinking if it’s not on the first search page on google it doesn’t exist… right!?!?
I was going to make hot cross buns, but was told that Easter had been and gone. However, I had already bought the currants, and oranges, limes and lemons so I could use their peel for the mixture and other than using them in a jug of Pimms I wasn’t sure what to do with them. Then I had this crazy idea of grating the rind of the fruit and adding it to the bread mixture and boy am I glad I did… it turned out yum!
The rind of all three fruits gave the bread this fresh zingy flavour that just makes you feel and think of summer. The currants gave an added sweetness and softness to the texture of the bread. If I am honest I didn’t expect the flavours to be so apparent once cooked, but they surprised me. The ratio of one rind of lemon, lime and orange per 500g of flour worked well.
To make the dough, I put the yeast in a mixture of cranberry juice, water and brown sugar before adding it to the flour with the rinds grated into it. I then placed the dough in a well-oiled bowl and covered with an oiled cling film. The dough rose beautifully as the rind gave it an extra boost. I then added the currents before shaping the bread. I wasn’t sure how to shape them as I don’t like using loaf tins, so I made them oblong and hoped for the best.
The feedback was really positive once again. Some even saying this is my best bread yet. I have to say, other than the Nutella Bread, this is my next favourite. Give this one a go… it’s well worth it!
Tips:
- Add rind of the fruit to the dry flour
- Put the currants to the middle of the dough as if they are left on the top of the bread they burn and don’t taste nice.
