Sweet bread, or rosca doce in Portuguese, is a comforting and versatile treat often enjoyed during breakfast, afternoon coffee breaks, or special celebrations.
Whether filled with cream, sprinkled with sugar, or served plain, what makes a sweet bread truly unforgettable is its soft, fluffy texture and gentle sweetness.
In this article, you’ll learn how to make a classic Brazilian-style sweet bread with a dough that’s light as air, easy to work with, and absolutely delicious when baked.
We’ll cover the step-by-step recipe, essential techniques for a fluffy crumb, and tips to elevate your baking game.
What Is Rosca Doce?
Rosca doce is a yeast-based sweet bread that’s often braided or shaped into rings, buns, or spirals. The name rosca refers to its circular or twisted form, while doce means sweet. It’s a staple in many Brazilian homes and bakeries, known for its soft, pillowy interior and golden crust.
It can be filled or unfilled, glazed or sugar-dusted, and often makes an appearance during holidays, especially Easter and Christmas.
Ingredients for the Perfect Sweet Bread Dough
Here’s what you’ll need to create a light and soft rosca doce:
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4 cups all-purpose flour (plus more for kneading)
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2 teaspoons active dry yeast
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1/2 cup warm milk
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1/4 cup sugar
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2 tablespoons butter (softened)
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2 large eggs
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
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Zest of 1 lemon or orange (optional)
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1 egg yolk + 1 tbsp milk (for egg wash)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Activate the Yeast
In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and sugar, then sprinkle in the yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This means your yeast is alive and ready.
2. Mix the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and optional zest. Make a well in the center and add the eggs, butter, vanilla, and yeast mixture. Mix with a wooden spoon or your hands until the dough starts to come together.
Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
3. First Rise
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Shaping the Rosca Doce
Once risen, punch the dough down gently to release air bubbles. Then, shape it into one of the following styles:
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Braided Loaf: Divide the dough into three strands, braid, and tuck the ends under.
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Ring Rosca: Form the dough into a large rope, then connect the ends into a ring.
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Individual Rolls: Shape into small balls or spirals and place in a round baking pan.
Let the shaped dough rest for 20–30 minutes for the second rise, until puffy.
Baking
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Brush the dough with the egg yolk and milk mixture for a shiny, golden finish.
Bake for 25–35 minutes, depending on the shape and size of your rosca. It should be golden brown on the outside and sound hollow when tapped.
Optional Glazes and Toppings
Enhance your sweet bread with these classic finishing touches:
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Sugar Dusting: Once cooled slightly, dust with powdered sugar.
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Sweet Glaze: Mix 1/2 cup of powdered sugar with 1–2 tbsp of milk for a drizzle.
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Coconut Topping: Sprinkle shredded coconut over a sugar glaze while the bread is still warm.
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Fruit Filling: Add guava paste or jam inside the braid before baking.
Expert Tips for Soft and Fluffy Sweet Bread
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Use room temperature ingredients to avoid shocking the yeast.
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Don’t over-flour the dough. A slightly sticky dough often yields the softest texture.
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Knead thoroughly to develop gluten, which gives structure and elasticity.
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Be patient with the rise. Cold environments can slow the yeast’s work.
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Egg wash is key for that beautiful, shiny crust.
Storage and Freezing
Store your sweet bread at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To keep it fresh longer:
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Freeze unglazed portions in plastic wrap and foil.
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Reheat in the oven for 5–8 minutes at 160°C (320°F).
Sweet bread is best when fresh, but it also reheats beautifully, making it ideal for meal prepping or gifting.
Why This Sweet Bread Recipe Works
This recipe balances structure, moisture, and flavor — essential for perfect rosca doce:
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Eggs and milk enrich the dough, adding tenderness.
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Sugar not only sweetens but also helps create a soft crumb.
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Butter provides fat for softness and flavor.
You can also personalize this recipe by adding spices (like cinnamon or cardamom), dried fruits, or nuts.
A Classic Recipe That Warms the Soul
Whether you’re baking for a holiday or just want to try something new on a cozy weekend, this rosca doce will deliver both comfort and deliciousness. Its soft and fluffy texture makes it a standout — and the process of making it is therapeutic and rewarding.
Once you try this at home, don’t be surprised if it becomes your favorite go-to bread for any time of year.