Ingredients with Measurements:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup white sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1/2 cup warm milk
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
- 2 tablespoons orange zest
Special Equipment Needed:
- Large bowl
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt.
2. Add the melted butter, warm milk, and eggs. Stir until combined.
3. Knead the dough for 5 minutes, until it is smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
5. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
6. Punch down the dough and knead in the raisins, walnuts, and orange zest.
7. Form the dough into a round loaf and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Bake for 30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Time:
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Temperature: 350 degrees F (175 degrees C)
Serving Size: 10-12 servings
Nutritional Information:
Calories: 250
Fat: 12g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Protein: 6g
Substitutions for Ingredients
- Butter: Can be substituted with coconut oil or olive oil.
- Raisins: Can be substituted with dried cranberries or chopped dates.
- Walnuts: Can be substituted with almonds or pecans.
- Orange zest: Can be substituted with lemon zest.
Variations:
- Add 1/2 cup of dried apricots for a sweeter flavor.
- Substitute the raisins with dried cherries for a tart flavor.
Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure the milk is not too hot, as it can kill the yeast.
- Let the dough rise in a warm place, such as near a radiator or in an oven with the light on.
Storage Instructions:
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Reheating Instructions:
Reheat in a 350 degree F (175 degree C) oven for 10 minutes.
Presentation Ideas:
Serve the bread on a platter with a sprig of rosemary or a sprinkle of powdered sugar.
Garnishes:
Sprinkle with powdered sugar or top with a sprig of rosemary.
Pairings:
Pair with a glass of mulled wine or a cup of hot cocoa.
Suggested Side Dishes:
Serve with a side of butter or honey for a sweet accompaniment.
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour.
- If the dough is too dry, add a little more milk.
Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure the milk is not too hot, as it can kill the yeast.
- Make sure the dough is cooked through before serving.
Food History:
Czech Christmas Bread is a traditional Czech recipe that is served during the Christmas season. It is a sweet bread that is flavored with raisins, walnuts, and orange zest.
Flavor Profiles:
Sweet, nutty, and citrusy.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve as a dessert or snack with a cup of hot cocoa or tea.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
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Region: Czech
Taste: Sweet, Nutty, Buttery, Cinnamon, Savory, Cinnamon-Spiced