Easter is a time for family gatherings, delightful treats, and the warming aroma of freshly baked goods filling the air. Embrace the spirit of the season with our delicious recipe for Cardamom Easter Bread. This traditional sweet bread is a delightful addition to your holiday table, featuring warm notes of cardamom that will transport your taste buds to a cozy kitchen filled with love and laughter.
Cardamom Easter Bread
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm milk
– 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 tsp ground cardamom
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup chopped almonds
– 1/2 cup golden raisins
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm milk and let it sit for about 5 minutes until foamy.
2. Add sugar, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, cardamom, and salt to the yeast mixture. Mix well.
3. Gradually stir in the flour, 1 cup at a time, until a sticky dough forms.
4. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. Once risen, punch down the dough and knead in the chopped almonds and golden raisins.
7. Divide the dough in half and shape each half into a long rope.
8. Twist the two ropes together and place the twisted loaf on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
9. Cover the loaf with a kitchen towel and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
10. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
11. Bake the bread for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
12. Let the bread cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.
Capture the essence of Easter with Cardamom Easter Bread, a delightful treat that will become a family favorite for years to come. The warm flavors of cardamom combined with the nutty crunch of almonds and the sweet burst of golden raisins create a bread that is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet snack any time of the day. Share the love and joy of the season with this homemade bread that will surely become a cherished tradition in your home.