Easter Bread (Kozunak)



Easter Braid and Roll by na2na3

A successful Easter bread uses fresh yeast and warm ingredients. A loose wet dough will transform into the perfect 'string' texture of traditional sweet Easter breads. Add almonds, cinnamon or rose hip jam and observe the enthusiasm of your Easter guests.
ingredients
1 kg flour
1/2 tsp salt
1 package (42 g) yeast
250 ml milk
200 g sugar
160 g butter
1/2 tsp vanilla
zest of 1 lemon
6 eggs
1 jar of rose hip jam
method
In a small bowl add the yeast. Sprinkle with 1 tbsp of sugar and stir until the yeast is liquid. Add 1 tbsp of milk and 1 tbsp of flour and mix well. Set aside until bubbly, 15-20 minutes.
Sift the flour and salt and set aside. Beat 5 eggs in a small bowl and set aside. Melt the butter over low heat.
Form a well in the flour and pour in the yeast mixture. Add the butter, sugar and beaten eggs. Slowly incorporate the flour until the mixture forms a smooth, wet dough.
Transfer the dough to a bowl, brush with a bit of butter, cover and let rise for about 1 - 1 1/2 hours in a warm place.
Turn the dough out onto a well-floured counter and punch down. Divide into 2 equal parts.
Divide the first part into 3 pieces. Roll the pieces out into long cords. Braid the 3 cords together to form a braided loaf.
Roll the second half into circular shape. Spread with rose hip jam and form into a roll.
Transfer both loaves to a baking sheet. Brush with a bit of butter and let rise again until they double in size, about 1 - 1 1/2 hours in a warm place.
Once the dough has risen, gently brush the surface with egg wash and sprinkle with sugar.
Bake in a preheated 180°C oven for about 30 minutes until the crust is nicely browned.