Drożdżowa Chałka Braided Yeast Bread

This Polish Christmas baking recipe brings warmth and tradition to your holiday table. The Drożdżowa Chałka, a Braided Yeast Bread, is a beloved treat that beautifully blends sweetness and richness into every bite. This bread is not only a delightful addition to your festive spread but also a labor of love that will fill your home with the aroma of cinnamon and joy.

**Ingredients:**
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 1 cup milk, warmed
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Zest of 1 orange
– Zest of 1 lemon
– 1/2 cup raisins (optional)
– 1/2 cup chopped almonds (optional)
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the Yeast Mixture:**
In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in the warm milk and let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.

2. **Mix Dry Ingredients:**
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, orange zest, and lemon zest.

3. **Knead the Dough:**
Using a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment or by hand, knead the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic, about 10-12 minutes. If the dough is too sticky, gradually add additional flour, one tablespoon at a time.

4. **Add Optional Ingredients:**
Fold in the raisins, chopped almonds, and ground cinnamon, distributing them evenly throughout the dough.

5. **First Rise:**
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.

6. **Shape the Bread:**
Punch down the risen dough and divide it into three equal parts. Roll each portion into ropes of equal length, then pinch the ends of the ropes together at the top. Braid the ropes together, tucking the ends under to form a rounded loaf.

7. **Second Rise:**
Transfer the braided bread to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover it with a kitchen towel and let it rise for another hour.

8. **Preheat the Oven:**
While the bread is rising, preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).

9. **Egg Wash:**
Brush the braided loaf with a beaten egg for a shiny, golden crust.

10. **Bake:**
Bake the Drożdżowa Chałka in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until beautifully golden brown and fragrant.

11. **Cool and Enjoy:**
Once baked, transfer the bread to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. Serve this delightful Braided Yeast Bread during your Christmas celebrations, and savor the warm, comforting flavors with your loved ones.

Create lasting memories this holiday season with the delightful aroma and taste of Drożdżowa Chałka. Your home will be filled with the joy of Christmas as you bake and share this traditional Polish treat with family and friends.