Kozunak is a sweet, braided bread traditionally made for Easter in Bulgaria. It’s rich, fluffy, and often flavored with lemon zest, vanilla, and raisins or other dried fruits. This festive bread is a symbol of celebration and is enjoyed by families during Easter.
Ingredients
For the Kozunak, you will need:
- 500 grams of all-purpose flour
- 200 grams of sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 100 grams of butter, melted
- 200 ml of warm milk
- 25 grams of fresh yeast or 1 packet (7 grams) of active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 100 grams of raisins or other dried fruits (optional)
- 1 egg yolk (for egg wash)
- 2 tablespoons of milk (for egg wash)
- Almond slivers or pearl sugar for topping (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Dough
- Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in the warm milk with a teaspoon of sugar. Let it sit for about 10 minutes, or until it becomes frothy.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the flour, remaining sugar, and salt. Mix well.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and add the melted butter, lemon zest, and vanilla extract.
- Form the Dough: Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the yeast mixture and the egg mixture. Stir to combine until a dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour as needed.
Step 2: First Rise
- Let it Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
Step 3: Adding Raisins and Shaping
- Add Raisins: If using raisins or dried fruits, knead them into the dough after the first rise.
- Shape the Bread: Divide the dough into three equal parts. Roll each part into a long rope and braid them together. Place the braid on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Step 4: Second Rise
- Second Rise: Cover the braided dough with a damp cloth and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until it has doubled in size.
Step 5: Baking
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Prepare Egg Wash: In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolk and 2 tablespoons of milk. Brush this mixture over the top of the dough.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle almond slivers or pearl sugar on top of the bread, if desired.
- Bake: Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. If the top browns too quickly, cover it with aluminum foil.
Step 6: Cooling and Serving
- Cool the Bread: Let the Kozunak cool on a wire rack before slicing.
- Serve: Enjoy the bread plain, with butter, or with your favorite jam.
Tips and Variations
- Flavor Variations: Add a teaspoon of almond extract or rum extract for a different flavor.
- Chocolate Chip Kozunak: Substitute the raisins with chocolate chips for a sweet twist.
- Nut Filling: Roll the dough with a mixture of ground nuts, sugar, and cinnamon before braiding for an added layer of flavor.
Kozunak is a beloved Bulgarian Easter tradition that brings joy and sweetness to the holiday. Its rich, tender crumb and delightful flavors make it a perfect addition to any festive table. Enjoy making and sharing this special bread with your family and friends!