Vánočka is often called “Houska” in the USA. The name “vánočka” comes from “Vánoce”, which means Christmas in Czech. It is a scrumptious sweet bread with raisins and almonds which is very common to serve on Christmas morning in the Czech Republic (December 24th). It can be served plain, with...
Read more... butter, or with butter and preserves/jam. Because it is very delicious, people buy it in the Czech Republic all year long.
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Chef Tom Founder
½ cup of lukewarm milk
½ cup of bread flour
1 TBSP of confectioners’ sugar
1 TBSP of active dry yeasts
Thoroughly stir with a whisk until fully combined (about 1 – 2 minutes).
Cover with plastic wrap and using a knife, create 1 small hole to let the leaven breathe.
Set aside until it doubles in volume (about 15 – 20 minutes).
½ cup of raisins
2 TSP of rum extract
Thoroughly stir.
Let it sit on a countertop until needed in a later step.
2 eggs – room temperature
1 cup of granulated sugar
1 stick of soft butter
1 TSP of vanilla extract
Whisk on high speed until fully incorporated—the butter is fully incorporated, and a creamy texture is reached (about 2- 4 minutes).
Leaven from step 1
Zest for 1 lemon
4 cups of bread flour
½ cup of lukewarm milk
Knead on slow speed until all ingredients are partially combined (for about 1 – 2 minutes).
Then increase the speed to medium-high and knead until nicely combined (about 1 – 2 minutes).
Raisins from step 1 (including the rum residue)
And process for an additional minute until incorporated.
The final dough is slightly sticky and can partially stick to the bottom of the bowl. Use a bowl scraper to release it from the hook and the bottom of the bowl.
Remove the mixing bowl from the mixer and cover it with plastic wrap.
Let it rise in a warm place until it has doubled in size (about 2 – 3 hours).
Note:
Work on a lightly floured surface.
Using a bowl scraper, separate the dough into 6 even pieces.
Then roll each piece into a strand – a long rope shape with a thickness of about ¾ – 1”.
Separate the strands so 3 are on the right and 3 are on the left, and connect all six strands by pinching them together at the top.
Cross hands (with the left on the top), and with each hand, grab the outermost strand from both sides.
Cross your hands and then place the strand from the right into the center (your left hand then becomes empty}. Then, with your left hand, take the outermost strand on the right side.
Cross your left hand under your right hand, and place the strand in your right hand into the center. Then, with your right hand, take the outermost strand on the left side.
Repeat this process until your Vánočka is complete.
When you get to the end of the Vanocka, push the ends together and then fold under the Vanocka.
Then, place the Vanocka on a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
Prepare a brushing mixture by briefly hand whisking 1 egg with ¼ cup of milk in a measuring pitcher.
Brush the Vánočka (keep about ½ for a second brushing).
Let the Vánočka proof in a warm place (for example, a lukewarm oven) until it doubles in size (about 60 minutes).
Preheat oven to 350°F.
Brush the Vánočka with the remaining brushing mixture.
Bake in a preheated oven for 15 minutes.
Then lower heat to 300°F and bake for an additional 35 – 45 minutes until fully baked (you reach a nice dark, but not burnt, color).
Remove from the oven and let fully cool before serving.
Vánočka, also known as Houska in the USA, is a traditional Czech sweet bread that graces tables on Christmas morning (December 24th) in the Czech Republic. This delightful bread, with its rich, slightly sweet flavor and beautiful braided appearance, is a true celebration of the festive season. The name “vánočka” originates from “Vánoce,” the Czech word for Christmas, highlighting its significance in Czech holiday traditions.
A Taste of Christmas: Sweet Czech Christmas Bread Vánočka
This Sweet Czech Christmas Bread Vánočka recipe offers a step-by-step guide to creating this festive masterpiece in your own kitchen. With its detailed instructions and helpful tips, even novice bakers can achieve impressive results.
Vánočka is characterized by its soft, fluffy texture and the delightful combination of raisins and almonds. The dough is enriched with eggs, butter, and sugar, resulting in a tender crumb that melts in your mouth. The addition of rum extract to the raisins adds a warm, aromatic note that complements the sweetness of the bread.
Vánočka is traditionally shaped into intricate braids, symbolizing the swaddling clothes of baby Jesus. While the traditional three-tiered braid may seem daunting, this recipe simplifies the process, making it achievable for bakers of all skill levels. The finished loaf is brushed with an egg wash and baked to a golden brown, creating a visually stunning centerpiece for your holiday table.
Baking Vánočka: A Step-by-Step Guide
This recipe provides clear and concise instructions, ensuring that your Vánočka turns out perfectly every time. From preparing the leaven to the final rise and bake, each step is explained in detail, leaving no room for guesswork.
The recipe also includes helpful tips and tricks to enhance your baking experience. For instance, it emphasizes the importance of using lukewarm milk for the leaven and dough, as this activates the yeast and promotes optimal rising. It also suggests using a bowl scraper to ensure that all the dough is incorporated and that no sticky residue is left behind.
Enjoying Vánočka: Serving Suggestions
Vánočka can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. It is delicious on its own, sliced and served with butter or your favorite jam. It also pairs well with coffee or tea, making it a perfect treat for breakfast or afternoon tea.
In the Czech Republic, Vánočka is often served alongside Christmas dinner or as part of a festive brunch. It can also be used to make French toast or bread pudding, adding a festive twist to classic dishes.
Embrace the Tradition: Bake Vánočka this Christmas
Baking Vánočka is not just about creating a delicious bread; it’s about embracing a cherished tradition and sharing the joy of the season with loved ones. The aroma of freshly baked Vánočka filling your home is sure to create a warm and inviting atmosphere, making your Christmas celebration even more special.
This holiday season, why not try your hand at baking this Sweet Czech Christmas Bread Vánočka? With its rich history, delicious flavor, and beautiful presentation, it’s a guaranteed showstopper that will impress your family and friends.
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