Looking for a bread that stands out both in color and flavor? Brimstone Bread – Black and Red is my go-to recipe when I want something dramatic and delicious. The deep red hue gives it a fiery, mystical look, while the fluffy, slightly sweet texture makes it perfect for soups, sandwiches, or themed dinners. Every slice brings a touch of magic to the table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how this bread combines soft texture with an eye-catching appearance. The red food coloring gives it a bold, unique flair that’s great for Halloween parties or fantasy-themed gatherings. It’s surprisingly easy to make, too, and turns out light and flavorful every time. I also like that it pairs beautifully with savory soups or can be used to make memorable sandwiches.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of Ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
5 cups all-purpose flour
2 ¼ cups warm water (not boiling)
1 tablespoon active dry yeast
2 tablespoons oil (vegetable or olive oil)
1 tablespoon salt
2 tablespoons sugar
Red food coloring (add enough to achieve a deep, vibrant red color)
Directions
Activate the Yeast: I start by combining yeast, sugar, and warm water in a large mixing bowl. I let it sit for about 5–10 minutes until it becomes bubbly and active.
Add the Ingredients: Once the yeast mixture is foamy, I gradually add salt, flour, oil, and red food coloring. I mix until the dough starts to come together.
Knead the Dough: I transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until it feels smooth and elastic. If it’s too sticky, I sprinkle a bit more flour.
Let the Dough Rise: I place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a cloth, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1–1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.
Shape and Bake: After punching down the dough to remove air, I shape it into a loaf and place it in a greased baking pan. I bake it at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes, until it’s golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
Cool and Serve: Once baked, I let it cool on a wire rack before slicing. It’s delicious on its own, but I especially love it with butter or alongside soup.
Servings and Timing
This recipe makes 1 loaf, serving about 8–10 slices.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Rise Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Bake Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours
Variations
I like to get creative with this bread by experimenting with different flavors and colors. Sometimes I add a few drops of black food coloring to swirl through the dough for a darker “brimstone” effect. For extra flavor, I mix in roasted garlic or herbs. I’ve also tried dividing the dough in half and dyeing one portion black and the other red, then twisting them together for a marbled look.
Storage/Reheating
Once the bread cools, I store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3–4 days. For longer storage, I slice it and freeze it for up to 3 months. When I’m ready to reheat, I wrap the slices in foil and warm them in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes or toast them for a few minutes until soft and warm.
FAQs
Can I make this bread without food coloring?
Yes, I can skip the coloring if I prefer a natural look. The bread will still taste delicious—just without the striking red hue.
Can I use whole wheat flour instead?
I sometimes replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier texture. Using all whole wheat flour makes the bread denser, so I prefer a mix.
How can I get a deeper color?
I like to add more red food coloring and a small touch of black food coloring to create that deep “brimstone” shade. The color intensifies slightly after baking.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, I often prepare the dough the night before and let it rise slowly in the fridge. The next day, I bring it to room temperature before baking.
What can I serve with Brimstone Bread?
I love serving it with creamy soups like tomato basil or pumpkin soup. It’s also great for sandwiches, or just toasted with butter for breakfast.
Conclusion
Brimstone Bread – Black and Red is one of my favorite ways to bring excitement to the dinner table. The color makes a bold statement, while the flavor and texture keep everyone coming back for more. Whether I’m baking it for a themed event or simply to impress guests, this bread never disappoints. It’s a simple, fun recipe that turns everyday baking into something spectacular.
Brimstone Bread – Black and Red is a dramatic, slightly sweet homemade bread with a bold red hue. Perfect for themed parties or adding flair to any meal, it’s soft, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to make.
Ingredients
5 cups all-purpose flour
2 1/4 cups warm water (not boiling)
1 tablespoon active dry yeast
2 tablespoons oil (vegetable or olive oil)
1 tablespoon salt
2 tablespoons sugar
Red food coloring (to achieve a deep, vibrant red)
Instructions
In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
Stir in salt, oil, red food coloring, and flour gradually until a dough forms.
Transfer dough to a floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Add more flour if dough is sticky.
Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm area for 1 to 1.5 hours or until doubled in size.
Punch down dough, shape into a loaf, and place in a greased baking pan.
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes or until golden and hollow-sounding when tapped.
Cool on a wire rack before slicing. Serve with butter, soup, or as sandwich bread.
Notes
Add black food coloring for a deeper, marbled brimstone effect.
Mix in roasted garlic or herbs for extra flavor.
Half whole wheat flour can be used for a heartier version.
Dough can be prepped and refrigerated overnight for a slow rise.
Freeze sliced bread for up to 3 months and reheat in oven or toaster.
