Best 2 Czech Christmas Bread Recipes
In the heart of Europe lies the Czech Republic, a land steeped in rich traditions and delectable cuisine. Among its culinary treasures is the renowned Czech Christmas Bread, known as Vánočka. This braided bread is not just a baked good; it is a symbol of love, prosperity, and unity, deeply ingrained in the country's holiday celebrations. Savor the aroma of freshly baked bread infused with the warmth of cinnamon, the subtle sweetness of raisins, and the crunch of almonds. Experience the delightful Vanilla Custard Buns, where fluffy brioche dough embraces a creamy vanilla custard filling, creating a perfect harmony of flavors. Embark on a culinary journey with our Potica Bread, a traditional Slovenian delight filled with a rich walnut mixture, a testament to the region's diverse culinary heritage. Dive into the world of braided breads with our Challah Bread recipe, a Jewish delicacy often served on special occasions, symbolizing the interconnectedness of community. Last but not least, explore the art of sweet and savory with our Ham and Cheese Braid, a versatile bread perfect for any occasion, combining the salty goodness of ham and cheese with a soft and tender bread base.
Check out the recipes below so you can choose the best recipe for yourself!
CZECH CHRISTMAS BREAD
My grandmother and aunt used to bake these lovely, traditional loaves every Christmas. I like my sliced toasted and buttered for breakfast.
Provided by Taste of Home
Time 1h10m
Yield 2 loaves.
Number Of Ingredients 13
Steps:
- In a large bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water. Add the sugar, milk, butter, eggs, lemon zest, salt, mace and 3 cups flour. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes or until smooth. Stir in enough remaining flour to form a soft dough (dough will be sticky). , Turn onto a lightly floured surface; knead until smooth and elastic, about 6-8 minutes. Place in a greased bowl, turning once to grease top. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1 hour. , Punch dough down. Turn onto a lightly floured surface; knead in raisins. Divide dough into six equal portions. Shape each into a 20-in. rope. Place three ropes on a greased baking sheet; braid. Pinch ends to seal and tuck under. Repeat with remaining ropes. , Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 45 minutes. Beat egg yolk and water; brush over loaves. Bake at 350° for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown. Cool on wire racks.
Nutrition Facts :
VANOCKA - VáNOèKA - CZECH CHRISTMAS BREAD
The vanocka is part of the Christmas holidays in Czechoslovakia, whether made at home or bought in a store. At one time in history, vánoèka could only be made by a baker who was a guild craftsman. Preparing a vanocka isn't simple and therefore a variety of customs were once followed in preparing, braiding and baking the dough to ensure success. The woman of the house had to mix the dough while wearing a white apron and kerchief, she shouldn't talk, and she was supposed to jump up and down while the dough was rising. Another old custom was to bake in a coin (much like a King cake). The person who found it in their slice was assured of health and wealth for all of the following year. A burnt or ripped vanocka was a bad omen. Preparation time approximate.
Provided by Molly53
Categories Yeast Breads
Time 2h40m
Yield 1 loaf
Number Of Ingredients 13
Steps:
- Soften yeast in warm water.
- In a mixer bowl, beat together sugar, margarine, and salt.
- Add eggs and beat well.
- Beat in 1 cup of flour.
- Beat in milk, lemon peel, mace, and yeast mixture.
- Stir in as much remaining flour as you can with a spoon.
- Stir in raisins and nuts.
- Turn out onto floured surface.
- Knead in enough of the remaining flour to make a moderately soft dough that is smooth and elastic (3-5 minutes total).
- Place in a lightly greased bowl; turn once to grease surface.
- Cover, let rise in warm place till double; divide in half.
- Divide one portion of the dough into fourths for the bottom braid.
- Cover and let rest 10 minutes.
- Meanwhile, divide the remaining dough into 5 portions for the other two layers of the dough.
- Cover those portions and set aside.
- On a lightly floured surface, form each of the first 4 portions into 16-inch long ropes.
- On a greased baking sheet, arrange the 4 ropes, 1 inch apart.
- Beginning in the middle of the ropes, braid together toward each end.
- To braid 4 ropes, overlap the center 2 ropes to form an X.
- Take the outside left rope and cross over the closest middle rope.
- Then, take the outside right rope and cross under the closest middle rope.
- Repeat braiding until you reach the end.
- Pinch ends together; tuck under.
- Turn baking sheet and braid on opposite end.
- Gently pull width of braid out slightly.
- Form remaining 5 portions into 16-inch long ropes.
- Braid 3 of the ropes together.
- Brush the 4-strand braid with water and center the second braid on top; gently pull width of top braid out.
- Twist the remaining two ropes of dough together.
- Brush the top braid with water; place the twist on top of the second braid.
- Cover the shaped dough and let rise till nearly double.
- While loaves are rising, preheat oven to 350°F.
- Brush surface of the shaped dough with egg yolk.
- Bake in oven for 35-40 minutes.
Tips:
- Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
- Make sure the butter and eggs are at room temperature before starting.
- Cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Stir in the dry ingredients until just combined.
- Do not overmix the batter, as this will make the bread tough.
- Bake the bread in a preheated oven until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the bread cool completely before slicing and serving.
Conclusion:
Czech Christmas bread is a delicious and festive bread that is perfect for the holiday season. With its rich flavor and beautiful appearance, this bread is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. If you are looking for a special bread to bake this Christmas, be sure to try Czech Christmas bread.
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