Syrian Khebez bel Haleeb (Sweet Milk Bread)
A soft, slightly sweet bread enriched with milk and a hint of mahlab, often enjoyed for breakfast or as a snack. It has a delicate crumb and a subtle aroma.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g All-purpose flour
- 250 ml Warm milk
- 75 g Granulated sugar
- 7 g Active dry yeast
- 50 g Unsalted butter(softened)
- 2 large Eggs(one for the dough, one for egg wash)
- 1 tsp Mahlab(ground (optional, for authentic flavor))
- 1 tsp Salt
- 2 tbsp Sesame seeds(for topping (optional))
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
In a small bowl, combine warm milk, 1 tablespoon of sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- 2
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, remaining sugar, salt, and mahlab (if using).
💡 Tip: Ensure salt and yeast are not in direct contact initially. - 3
Add the yeast mixture, softened butter, and one egg to the dry ingredients. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
💡 Tip: If using a stand mixer, use the dough hook attachment. - 4
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- 5
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
💡 Tip: A slightly humid environment helps dough rise. - 6
Punch down the dough and shape it into a round loaf or desired shapes. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
💡 Tip: Gently shape to avoid deflating the dough too much. - 7
Cover the shaped dough and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes.
- 8
Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F). Whisk the remaining egg with a tablespoon of water for the egg wash.
- 9
Brush the top of the bread with the egg wash and sprinkle with sesame seeds, if desired.
💡 Tip: Egg wash gives a golden sheen to the crust. - 10
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and the bottom sounds hollow when tapped.
💡 Tip: Rotate the baking sheet halfway through for even browning. - 11
Let cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Mahlab is a spice made from ground cherry pits and adds a unique, slightly almond-like flavor. It's traditional in many Middle Eastern baked goods.
- ✓Ensure your yeast is active for a good rise.
- ✓Don't overwork the dough after the first rise.
🔄 Variations
- Add a tablespoon of orange blossom water or rose water to the dough for a floral aroma.
- Incorporate a handful of chopped pistachios or almonds into the dough.
- Shape into small rolls instead of one large loaf.