Ingredients with Measurements:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup warm milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 tsp active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup poppy seeds
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup water
Special equipment needed:
- Stand mixer with dough hook attachment
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Pastry brush
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and yeast. Mix on low speed until combined.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter, warm milk, and eggs.
3. With the mixer running on low speed, slowly pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Increase the mixer speed to medium and knead the dough for 5-7 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
5. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the dough rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
6. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
7. Punch down the dough and turn it out onto a floured surface. Roll it out into a rectangle about 1/2 inch thick.
8. In a small bowl, mix together the poppy seeds, honey, and water.
9. Spread the poppy seed mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a 1/2 inch border around the edges.
10. Starting at one of the long edges, roll the dough up tightly into a log.
11. Place the log onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and shape it into a ring, pinching the ends together to seal.
12. Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise for 30 minutes.
13. Brush the top of the dough with a beaten egg.
14. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
15. Let the bread cool on the baking sheet for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Time:
Preparation time: 2 hours
- Cooking time: 30-35 minutes
Temperature:
- Preheat oven to 350°F
Serving size:
- 8-10 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 360
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Protein: 8g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Whole wheat flour can be used in place of all-purpose flour for a healthier version.
- Maple syrup or agave nectar can be used in place of honey.
Variations:
- Add raisins or dried cranberries to the poppy seed mixture for a fruity twist.
- Add chopped nuts, such as almonds or walnuts, to the poppy seed mixture for added crunch.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the milk is warm, but not hot, to avoid killing the yeast.
- If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour until it becomes manageable.
- Letting the dough rise in a warm place, such as near a window or on top of the oven, will help it rise faster.
Storage instructions:
- Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- To reheat, wrap the bread in foil and place it in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the bread on a wooden cutting board with a honey drizzle and a sprinkle of poppy seeds.
Garnishes:
- Fresh fruit, such as sliced strawberries or raspberries, can be used as a garnish.
Pairings:
- Serve with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a cozy breakfast or snack.
Suggested side dishes:
- Fresh fruit salad or yogurt parfait would be a great side dish to accompany this bread.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the bread is not rising, make sure the yeast is fresh and the dough is in a warm place.
- If the bread is too dense, make sure to knead the dough for at least 5 minutes and let it rise until doubled in size.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to wash your hands and all surfaces that come into contact with the dough to avoid contamination.
Food history:
- Houska is a traditional Czech sweet bread that is often served during holidays and special occasions.
Flavor profiles:
- This bread has a sweet and nutty flavor from the poppy seeds and honey.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the bread warm with a dollop of butter or cream cheese for a decadent treat.
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Region: Czech