Tsoureki Danish Braid (Perfect Dessert for Easter)

butter

🥗Healthier: coconut oil

💰Cheaper: margarine

Coconut oil offers a dairy-free option while margarine is often less expensive.

milk

🥗Healthier: almond milk

💰Cheaper: water

Almond milk reduces calories and is lactose-free, while water is a cost-effective substitute.

sugar

🥗Healthier: honey

💰Cheaper: brown sugar

Honey is a natural sweetener, while brown sugar is often less expensive.

eggs

🥗Healthier: flaxseed meal

💰Cheaper: egg substitute

Flaxseed meal provides a vegan option while an egg substitute can be more affordable.

Add 1/4 cup of milk at 110-115 degrees, 1 tablespoon of sugar, 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, and 1 tablespoon of active dried yeast to a bowl and let it sit for 7-8 minutes until bubbly.

Microwave 3/4 cup of extra milk for about 20 seconds until lukewarm.

Add 2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract and 2 eggs to the lukewarm milk and whisk together.

Zest 2 oranges and set aside.

In a separate bowl, mix 4 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of granulated sugar, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1 tablespoon of maclepi.

Combine the yeast mixture with the milk and eggs, then add the dry ingredients and mix.

Knead the dough on low speed for 10-12 minutes, then add 2 ounces of soft unsalted butter and mix for another 2 minutes.

Transfer the dough to a greased bowl with olive oil, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise until doubled in volume (about 2 hours, or longer if your house is cold).

For a quick rise, place the dough in a warm dryer for 1.5-2 hours or in the oven with the light on.

To make the cream cheese filling, mix 8 ounces of soft cream cheese with 4 tablespoons of granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract, and 1 egg yolk until smooth.

Cut the risen dough in half and prepare a pan with parchment paper.

Roll out the dough into a rectangle on parchment paper to make it easier to transfer.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Allergens