Nut and raisin cake

Nut and Raisin Sweet Bread – A Holiday Delight

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 2 sweet breads

Sweet bread symbolizes joy and celebration, a dessert that reminds us of moments spent with loved ones. With a fluffy texture and a rich filling of nuts and raisins, this nut and raisin sweet bread recipe is perfect for enjoying alongside a warm cup of tea or a glass of wine.

Ingredients needed:

- 300 g quality butter (ideally at room temperature)
- 10 eggs (separating the yolks from the whites)
- 10 tablespoons of flour (use good quality flour, preferably type 650)
- 8 tablespoons of lukewarm milk (not hot, to avoid killing the yeast)
- 4 tablespoons of sugar (preferably fine white sugar)
- 20 g fresh yeast (or 7 g dry yeast)
- 1 tablespoon of grated lemon zest (for flavor)
- 100 g white raisins (soaked in warm water or rum for 30 minutes)
- 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar (for decoration)
- 1 tablespoon of crushed hazelnuts (for added texture)

The history of sweet bread is deeply rooted in our traditions, often associated with winter holidays or special moments in our lives. The dish has evolved over time, enriched with various fillings, from nuts and chocolate to sweet cheese and candied fruits.

Preparing the sweet bread:

1. Prepare the ingredients: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature. Take the butter out of the fridge a few hours before you start.

2. Cream the butter: In a large bowl, beat 300 g of butter with a mixer until it becomes a fluffy, light-colored cream. It is essential for the butter to be well-whipped to achieve an airy sweet bread.

3. Add the yolks: Gradually add the 10 yolks, mixing well after each addition. This step will make the dough rich and creamy.

4. Incorporate the flour and milk: Add the 10 tablespoons of flour and the 8 tablespoons of lukewarm milk, mixing continuously to avoid lumps.

5. Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, dissolve 20 g of yeast in a little lukewarm milk. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This will ensure even rising of the dough.

6. Combine the ingredients: Add the activated yeast to the butter mixture, along with a pinch of salt, the grated lemon zest, and the well-drained 100 g of raisins. Mix everything until you have a homogeneous mixture.

7. Whip the egg whites: In another bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. This will help aerate the dough and make the sweet bread fluffier.

8. Incorporate the egg whites: Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the butter mixture using a spatula, being careful not to deflate them. This step is crucial for keeping the air in the dough.

9. Shape the dough: Divide the dough into two equal parts, shaping them gently. Cover them with a damp cloth and let them rise in a warm place, away from drafts, for about 30-40 minutes.

10. Prepare the pans: Before baking, grease two sweet bread pans with butter and line them with crushed hazelnuts to create a crunchy, flavorful layer.

11. Baking: Once the sweet breads have risen, place them in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) and bake for about 60 minutes. They are done when they turn golden and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.

12. Cooling and decorating: Allow the sweet breads to cool in the pans, then transfer them to a cooling rack. Sprinkle powdered sugar on top before serving.

Serving suggestions: The nut and raisin sweet bread is delicious served warm but can also be enjoyed the next day, lightly toasted in butter.

Personalized option: You can also add ground dark chocolate or pieces of candied orange for an even more refined taste.

Nutritional value (per estimated serving):
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Protein: 8 g
- Fat: 25 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use dry yeast instead of fresh yeast?
Yes, you can use dry yeast, noting that 7 g of dry yeast is equivalent to 20 g of fresh yeast.

2. What other fillings can I use?
Instead of nuts and raisins, you can try using walnuts, almonds, or even chocolate and dried fruits.

3. How can I tell if the sweet bread is done?
Perform the toothpick test: insert a toothpick into the center of the sweet bread. If it comes out clean, the sweet bread is ready.

4. How can I store it better?
Keep the sweet bread in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain its freshness.

If you want to explore more delicious recipes, we recommend trying walnut sweet bread or cocoa sweet bread, each with its own charm.

With every bite of nut and raisin sweet bread, you will savor not just a dessert but also a piece of our culinary tradition, bringing the aroma of the holidays into your home. Enjoy!

 Ingredients: 300 g butter, 10 eggs, 10 tablespoons flour, 8 tablespoons milk, 4 tablespoons sugar, 20 g yeast, 1 tablespoon grated lemon zest, 100 g raisins, 2 tablespoons powdered sugar, 1 tablespoon crushed hazelnuts.

 Tags:  sweet bread recipes for sweet bread walnut cake sweet bread with raisins