Pão de Deus

Step 1

Dissolve the yeast in 1 cup of warm milk. Let stand for 15 minutes.

Step 2

In the bowl of a stand mixer, add the flour and dig a well.

Step 3

Add the brown sugar, eggs, milk and dissolved yeast.

Step 4

Knead for a few minutes using the dough hook.

Step 5

Slowly incorporate the butter while mixing. Add the salt.

Step 6

Knead for 5 minutes at medium speed or until smooth and non-sticky.

Step 7

If necessary, add a little warm milk if the dough is too compact or some flour if it is too soft or sticky.

Step 8

Place the dough in a large bowl, cover with a cloth and let rise in a warm place for 2 hours. It must at least double in volume.

Step 9

Shape the pães de deus either in the shape of a ball about 2 inches in diameter or in your preferred mold.

Step 10

Cover them with a cloth and let them rise again for 45 minutes in a warm place.

Step 11

Preheat the oven to 350F/180C, and prepare the bread topping in the meantime.

Step 12

In a bowl, vigorously whisk the eggs, grated coconut and sugar.

Step 13

In another bowl, beat the two egg yolks and water and brush the bread with this mixture.

Step 14

Place the coconut cream on top of each pão de deus.

Step 15

Bake for 15 to 20 minutes.