Ingredients

Dough

Live yeast 22 grams (0.5 ounce)
Water 200 grams (0.5 cup)
Sugar 7 grams (0.5 tablespoon)
Butter 60 grams (0.5 stick)
Vegetable oil 25 grams (2 tablespoons)
Eggs large 3
Sugar 160 grams (0.75 cup)
Strong flour (12 grams protein per 100 grams) 460 grams (4 cups)
Orange and lemon zest
Raisins, candied fruits, dried cranberries, and cherries 80 grams (0.5 cup)

Instructions

Step 1

Prepare Candied Fruits

Chop the candied fruits and dried berries. Mix them with 1 tablespoon of strong *alcohol*, and let them soak for an hour. Dry them and coat with 1 tablespoon of *flour* before adding to the dough.

Step 2

Prepare Ingredients

Sift the *flour* into a bowl. Let the eggs sit at room temperature for an hour. *Activate* the yeast by warming the water to 35°-38°C (95°-100°F), dissolving 7 grams (0.5 tablespoon) of sugar, and crumbling in the yeast. Stir and cover with plastic wrap, placing in a warm area for 10-15 minutes.

*Melt* the butter and allow it to cool, then mix with the *vegetable oil*.

Step 3

Mix Wet Ingredients

Using the whisk attachment, beat the eggs and sugar on medium-high speed until *light* and *fluffy*. Reduce the speed, pour in the *oils*, followed by the activated yeast. Mix until combined.

Step 4

Knead the Dough

Switch to the dough hook. Quickly add the *flour*, 1 tablespoon at a time, until fully incorporated. Increase the speed to medium-high and knead the dough for 8 minutes.

Cover with plastic wrap and leave in a warm place for 1.5 hours.

Step 5

Prepare Zest and Mix With Fruits

Grate the zest of the lemon and orange, mix with 1 teaspoon of sugar, and let dry. Punch down the risen dough, add the zest and *prepared fruits*. Knead until fully combined. Cover again and let rise in a warm place for another hour.

Step 6

Prepare Molds and Bake

Grease the entire inner surface of your baking molds with a thin layer of *oil*. Distribute the sticky dough into the molds, about 100 grams (0.5 cup) per mold. Place them on a baking sheet, cover with a towel, and let rise until they have doubled in size.

Preheat the oven to 180°C (355°F).

Step 7

Bake the Bread

Bake for approximately 45 minutes. Cover the tops with foil if they darken too quickly. Let cool until warm to the touch. Wrap in plastic wrap for storage. You can *freeze* or leave at room temperature.

Servings

🍰 **Serving Suggestions** 🍰

Let's turn these delightful pastries into a centerpiece for your next gathering! Arrange them on an elegant platter and dust them with a fine coating of powdered sugar for a fancy touch. **Perfect for holidays**, these easily double as a festive treat and a charming gift.

If you're hosting a cozy afternoon tea, complement your pastries with a pot of your favorite brew. The citrus zest and dried fruits shine beautifully when paired with a soothing chamomile or a robust Earl Grey. ☕️ Add a touch of whimsy with some edible flowers scattered around the platter.🌸

Feeling adventurous? Create a DIY dessert station with toppings like honey, chocolate sauce, or a selection of flavored butter spreads. Let everyone personalize their pastries with a drizzle and some sprinkle magic! 🎉

Equipment

Mixing Bowls

Choose a set of nesting bowls to keep your kitchen space organized. Glass bowls work well for microwave use if you need to melt butter.

We recommend:

Variations

🌟 **Gluten-Free and Vegan Variations** 🌟

For those who are gluten-sensitive, substitute the strong flour with a high-quality gluten-free baking mix. Ensure it's suitable for yeast pastries to maintain that desired fluffiness.👍

For a vegan twist, replace butter with a plant-based alternative like coconut oil or vegan butter, and swap eggs with aquafaba or flaxseed slurry. With these adjustments, everyone can enjoy the joyous bite of these sumptuous pastries! 🥳

Faq

  • Why is my dough not rising properly?

    Ensure your yeast is fresh and active. Also, check the temperature of the liquid added to the dough—too hot can kill the yeast, and too cold won't activate it.

  • Can I make the dough in advance?

    Absolutely! Prepare the dough a day ahead and let it rise slowly in the fridge. This enhances the flavor and texture.

  • What do I do if my pastries are browning too quickly?

    Cover the tops with aluminum foil halfway through baking to prevent over-browning while allowing the centers to cook thoroughly.

  • How do I store the pastries to keep them fresh?

    Once cooled, wrap them tightly in plastic and store them at room temperature or freeze them for longer storage.

  • How can I enhance the flavor profile?

    Consider adding a splash of vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon to the dough for an extra layer of flavor.

  • Is there a way to incorporate more fillings?

    You can fold additional goodies like chocolate chips or nuts into the dough right before the final rise.

Nutrition facts

Traditional Easter Bread with Candied Fruits
Recipe Yield:Approx. 10 servings
Calories:Calories per serving
Calories (Min - Max):350 - 400
Total Fat:16g
Saturated Fat:8g
Protein:7g
Total Carbohydrate:45g
Total Sugars:20g