Peach Coffee Cake (Sweet Dough)

1. 1

   This dough is a basic sweet dough. I use it for cinnamon rolls and monkey bread, as well. Combine the milk, yeast, and sugar in a mixing bowl. Let stand for 2 minutes to proof the yeast. Add the egg, butter, nutmeg, salt, and half of the flour. Mix until smooth, then beat for 2 minutes. Stir in enough of the remaining flour to make a soft dough.

2. 2

   Turn dough onto floured surface and knead just enough to smooth the dough and thoroughly combine ingredients. Kneading makes gluten, so don't overdo it, or you'll lose tenderness. Place in a greased bowl, cover and let rise until doubled, about 1 1/2 hours.

3. 3

   To assemble, punch the dough down, and divide in half. Roll the dough into discs and spread into the greased pans. Cover and let rise in the pan until doubled, about 1 1/2 hours. Meanwhile, mix the sugars and cinnamon in a bowl. Canned peach slices are usually too thick. Slice them as necessary to get reasonably thin pieces, about 1/2 inch.

4. 4

   When the cakes are risen, brush the dough with melted butter, and sprinkle with a mixture of sugars and cinnamon. Spread peaches over the top, covering as much dough as possible, and then sprinkle again with the sugar and cinnamon mix. You want a good, thick coating of sugar, to glaze the top.

5. 5

   Bake in a 350-degree Fahrenheit oven for 20-25 minutes. The coffee cakes should be golden around the edges, but somewhat pasty where risen between the peach slices. Let cool for at least 15 minutes.

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.