Czech Christmas Bread - Vánočka

butter

🥗Healthier: coconut oil

💰Cheaper: margarine

Coconut oil provides a dairy-free option while maintaining moisture.

raisins

🥗Healthier: dried cranberries

💰Cheaper: sultanas

Dried cranberries add tartness and are often more affordable.

walnuts

🥗Healthier: almonds

💰Cheaper: pecans

Almonds are a lower-cost nut option with similar texture.

sugar

🥗Healthier: honey

💰Cheaper: brown sugar

Honey adds natural sweetness and moisture.

Activate the yeast by mixing it with lukewarm milk and 3 teaspoons of sugar, let sit for 10 minutes.

Mix salt and sugar into the flour in a standing mixer bowl.

Add lemon zest to the flour mixture.

Add egg yolks and melted butter to the flour mixture and mix.

Pour in the activated yeast mixture and mix on low speed.

Add raisins and knead on medium speed for about 10 minutes until the dough pulls away from the sides.

Knead the dough on a floured counter to incorporate the raisins evenly.

Place the dough in a floured bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it prove for about 2 hours until doubled in size.

Divide the dough into pieces for braiding, weighing for accuracy if desired.

Roll out the pieces into long shapes for braiding.

Braid the dough pieces together and place on a parchment-lined baking tray.

Brush the top with a beaten egg and sprinkle shaved almonds on top.

Cover with a damp towel and let it prove for another hour.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Allergens