Description
Vánočka is a traditional Czech sweet bread, often baked during Christmas. It has a rich, slightly sweet flavor and a soft, fluffy texture.
Ingredients
Scale
- 500g all-purpose flour
- 100g granulated sugar
- 1 packet (7g) active dry yeast
- 250ml warm milk
- 2 eggs
- 100g unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 50g raisins (optional)
- 50g almonds (optional)
Instructions
- Dissolve yeast in warm milk with a pinch of sugar. Let sit for 10 minutes until frothy.
- Mix flour, sugar, and salt in a large bowl.
- Add yeast mixture, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Knead until smooth.
- Fold in raisins and almonds if using.
- Cover and let rise for 1 hour until doubled in size.
- Divide dough into 6 equal parts. Roll each into a long rope.
- Braid 3 ropes together, then place the remaining 3 ropes on top and braid again.
- Place on a baking sheet, cover, and let rise for 30 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown.
Notes
- Let dough rise in a warm place for best results.
- Brush with egg wash before baking for a shiny crust.
- Store in an airtight container to keep fresh.
- Prep Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Czech
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 50g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
Keywords: vánočka, Czech Christmas bread, sweet bread, holiday baking