Ingredients
1 cup warm water (105-115°F) 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast 2 tablespoons granulated sugar 1 teaspoon salt 3 tablespoons olive oil 3 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting 1 tablespoon smoked paprika ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra “brimstone”) Black food coloring gel (optional, for swirling) Egg wash (1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon water) Coarse sea salt for sprinkling
Instructions
1. In a large bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy. Stir in salt and olive oil. Gradually add flour, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using), mixing until a shaggy dough forms. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes, until smooth and elastic. If using black food coloring, knead it in during the last 2 minutes, swirling for a marbled effect. Place the dough in a greased bowl, turning once to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size. Punch down the dough and shape it into a round loaf. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover loosely with plastic wrap and let rise again for 30-45 minutes, or until nearly doubled. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the risen loaf with egg wash and sprinkle with coarse sea salt. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped on the bottom. Let cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.
Notes
For an extra “brimstone” effect, you can add a few drops of black food coloring gel to the dough while kneading to create spooky swirls. This Classic Halloween Brimstone Bread pairs wonderfully with hearty stews or chili, or simply enjoyed on its own. It’s a fantastic addition to any Halloween spread! Store any leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Bread, Halloween, Autumn
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
