Spring into Crafting: Italian Braided Sweet Bread Wreath

butter

🥗Healthier: coconut oil

💰Cheaper: margarine

Coconut oil adds moisture with fewer calories.

candied fruit

🥗Healthier: dried fruit

💰Cheaper: mixed nuts

Dried fruit provides sweetness without added sugar.

Mix flour, sugar, and salt in a large bowl.

Activate yeast in warm milk until bubbly, about 5-10 minutes.

Combine yeast mixture with flour mixture, mixing until a dough forms.

Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

Incorporate softened butter, vanilla, almond extract, orange zest, and lemon zest into the dough.

Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10-15 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1-2 hours.

Punch down the dough and fold in candied fruit.

Shape the dough into a round loaf and place in a greased pan.

Cover the loaf and let rise again until doubled, about 30-60 minutes.

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

Brush the top of the loaf with egg wash and sprinkle with sesame seeds.

Bake for 30-40 minutes until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.

Allow to cool before dusting with powdered sugar.

Cooking Techniques

Spice Level:

Allergens