Sweet bread in the bread machine

Cozonac at the bread machine: Delicious and simple recipe

Cozonac is a true treasure of culinary traditions, often associated with holidays and special moments with loved ones. This bread machine cozonac recipe will bring not only familiar flavors into your home but also warm memories that intertwine with each slice enjoyed. Moreover, it is a quick and easy recipe, perfect for anyone who wants to enjoy a homemade dessert without spending too much time in the kitchen.

Total time: 3 hours and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 12

Ingredients:
- 250 ml warm milk (boiled and left to cool slightly)
- 2 teaspoons salt (twisted)
- 3 eggs (plus 1 for brushing)
- 50 ml oil
- Zest of one lemon
- 200 g sugar
- 1 packet vanilla sugar
- 750 g flour
- 1 packet dry yeast
- 100 g raisins
- 250 g Turkish delight
- Rum essence (to taste)

Preparation step by step:

Step 1: Preparing the ingredients
Start by ensuring all ingredients are at room temperature. The milk should be warm but not hot to activate the yeast. The raisins can be soaked in rum for a more intense flavor, so I recommend placing them in a small bowl with rum and letting them hydrate for 30 minutes. Meanwhile, cut the Turkish delight into thin slices.

Step 2: Adding ingredients to the bread machine
In the bread machine, add the ingredients in the following order: warm milk, salt, eggs (2 whole and 1 yolk), oil, lemon zest, sugar, vanilla sugar, flour, and dry yeast. It is important to add the yeast last to avoid direct contact with the wet ingredients too early. Sprinkle a teaspoon of sugar over the yeast to activate it.

Step 3: Setting the bread machine
Set the bread machine to the kneading and rising program (Dough) and let it do its job. During this time, you will smell the delicious aroma of the dough forming.

Step 4: Proofing the dough
After the program is finished, remove the dough from the machine and place it on a floured surface. Form two balls which you will cover with a clean towel. Let them rise in a warm place for about 15 minutes. This step is crucial for obtaining a fluffy and airy cozonac.

Step 5: Shaping the cozonacs
Once they have risen, roll out each ball with a rolling pin, forming two rectangles. Sprinkle the slices of Turkish delight and the hydrated raisins on the surface of the dough. Here you can be creative and add other fillings of your choice, such as chopped nuts or chocolate.

Step 6: Rolling and proofing the cozonacs
Carefully rolling the dough, form the cozonacs and place them in baking pans lined with parchment paper. Cover them again and let them rise for 15-20 minutes. During this time, you can preheat the oven to 180°C.

Step 7: Baking
Once the cozonacs have risen, brush them with the beaten egg for a golden and shiny crust. Place them in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until they are golden and pass the toothpick test (if it comes out clean, the cozonacs are ready).

Step 8: Cooling and serving
Let the cozonacs cool in the pan, then slice them and enjoy their inviting aroma. I recommend serving them with a cup of tea or coffee to further enhance the tasting experience.

Useful tips:
- If you want a more aromatic cozonac, add a little cinnamon to the dough.
- You can experiment with different fillings, such as chocolate cream or fruit jams.
- Make sure to use good quality flour to achieve a perfectly risen dough.

Nutritional benefits:
Cozonac, although a dessert, can provide a source of carbohydrates and proteins due to the ingredients used. The eggs and milk bring protein and calcium, while the raisins add fiber and antioxidants. Consume it in moderation, especially if you are following a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can cozonac be frozen?
Yes, cozonac can be frozen very well. I recommend slicing it and wrapping it in cling film before placing it in the freezer.

2. How can I avoid overbaking?
Check the cozonac in the last 10 minutes of baking. If it becomes too brown, cover it with a sheet of aluminum foil.

3. What can I do if the dough doesn't rise?
Make sure the yeast is active. You can test the yeast by mixing it with warm water and a teaspoon of sugar. If it forms bubbles, it is active.

I hope this recipe brings you joy and unforgettable moments with your loved ones. Enjoy!

 Ingredients: 250 ml warm milk (boiled) 2 teaspoons salt (grated) 3 eggs (+1 for brushing) 50 ml oil grated zest of one lemon 200 g sugar 1 packet vanilla sugar 750 g flour 1 packet dry yeast 100 g raisins 250 g Turkish delight rum essence

 Tags:  sweet bread bread machine