Braided cake with walnuts

Braided Walnut Bread – A Delicious Tradition for Special Moments

The bread is more than just a simple dessert; it is a true culinary tradition that brings families together during festive occasions. This braided walnut bread recipe is perfect for enjoying with loved ones, and while the preparation process may seem complex, it is a fulfilling experience. Whether you are celebrating a special occasion or simply want to indulge, this bread will surely become a favorite recipe.

Preparation time: 1 hour
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 8-10

Necessary ingredients:

For the dough:
- 1 kg of flour
- 200 g of sugar
- 8 egg yolks
- 200 g of butter (melted and cooled)
- 1 pinch of salt
- 60 g of fresh yeast
- 330 ml of milk
- 160 ml of buttermilk
- 50 ml of oil
- 4 packets of vanilla sugar
- 1 vial of rum essence
- Grated zest of one lemon

For the filling:
- 300 g of ground walnuts
- 4 tablespoons of candied orange peel
- 4 tablespoons of sugar
- 2 egg whites
- 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder
- Brown sugar for sprinkling on the bread
- 2 egg yolks for brushing
- Oil for greasing the pans
- Flour for dusting the pans

Step by step for a perfect bread:

1. Preparing the starter:
Start by preparing the starter. In a bowl, put 100 g of flour and pour 200 ml of boiling milk over it. Mix well to avoid lumps. Let it cool completely.

2. Activating the yeast:
In a small bowl, mix 60 g of fresh yeast with a teaspoon of sugar. Add this mixture to the scalded flour only when it has cooled. Cover the bowl and let the starter rise in a warm place for 15 minutes.

3. Preparing the dough mixture:
In a blender, put the egg yolks, sugar, buttermilk, the remaining sweet milk, melted (but cooled) butter, lemon zest, vanilla sugar, salt, oil, and rum essence. Blend well until you obtain a homogeneous mixture.

4. Combining the ingredients:
After the starter has risen, pour the mixture from the blender over it and mix gently. Then, add this mixture to the remaining sifted flour, mixing until homogeneous. Knead the dough, either by hand or with a mixer, for about 1 hour and a half, until it becomes elastic and smooth.

5. Preparing the filling:
While the dough is rising, prepare the filling. Mix the ground walnuts with sugar, candied orange peel, egg whites, and cocoa. Ensure all ingredients are well incorporated.

6. Shaping the breads:
Once the dough has risen, place it on a work surface greased with oil (not flour!). Divide it into 8 equal pieces. Using a rolling pin or your hands, roll out each piece of dough. Place a layer of filling in the center of each piece and roll it up. You will have 8 rolls that you will braid in pairs.

7. Preparing for baking:
Place each small bread in a greased and floured baking tray. Brush each small bread with egg yolk and sprinkle brown sugar on top for a glossy appearance and a crunchy crust.

8. Baking:
Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius and bake the breads for about 30 minutes. Perform the toothpick test – if it comes out clean, the breads are ready. Remove them from the oven and let them cool in the pan.

Useful tips:
- Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before you start cooking to achieve a uniform texture.
- The secret to a fluffy bread is proper kneading; don't be afraid to get involved and knead the dough well.
- You can vary the filling by adding raisins or chocolate, depending on your preferences.
- For an intense aroma, you can use different essences, such as almond or orange.

Nutritional benefits:
Although it is a dessert, the bread contains nutritious ingredients such as walnuts, which are rich in omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins. The use of milk and eggs provides an important supply of protein and calcium.

Perfect pairings:
The braided walnut bread pairs wonderfully with aromatic tea or a glass of warm milk. You can serve it alongside fruit jam or even with vanilla ice cream for a delicious contrast.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes, but use a smaller proportion of whole wheat flour, as it absorbs more water.

2. How can I keep the bread fresh longer?
Keep it in an airtight container or wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature.

3. Can I freeze the bread?
Yes, the bread can be frozen, but make sure it is well wrapped.

Every bite of this braided walnut bread will remind you of the warm moments spent with loved ones. I wish you success in preparing it and enjoy the delicious results!

 Ingredients: For the dough 1 kg of flour 200 g sugar 8 egg yolks 200 g butter 1 pinch of salt 60 g fresh yeast 330 ml milk 160 ml buttermilk 50 ml oil 4 packets of vanilla sugar 1 vial of rum essence grated peel of one lemon For the filling 300 g ground walnuts 4 tablespoons candied orange peel 4 tablespoons sugar 2 egg whites 2 tablespoons cocoa brown sugar for sprinkling on the brioche 2 egg yolks for brushing oil for greasing the molds flour for dusting the molds