Cajeta and Anise Bread is a delightful and aromatic treat that combines the rich, sweet flavor of cajeta—a traditional Mexican caramel sauce made from goat’s milk—with the warm, fragrant notes of anise. This unique bread not only offers a delicious taste but also fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma. Perfect for breakfast or as a snack, this recipe is easy to follow and will impress your family and friends.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cajeta
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon anise seeds
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and anise seeds. Whisk together until well blended.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter, milk, cajeta, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth and fully combined.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined; be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense bread.
Step 5: Pour into Loaf Pan
Transfer the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Step 6: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The bread should be golden brown on top.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. Serve with additional cajeta drizzled on top for an extra treat!
FAQs
What is cajeta?
Cajeta is a traditional Mexican caramel sauce made from goat’s milk. It has a rich and unique flavor that adds depth to various recipes, including desserts and pastries.
Can I substitute the anise seeds?
Yes, if you prefer a different flavor, you can substitute anise seeds with fennel seeds or omit them entirely. However, anise adds a distinctive taste that complements the cajeta well.
How should I store leftover Cajeta and Anise Bread?
Store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, you can make a vegan version by substituting the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg) and using plant-based milk and butter alternatives.