Nothing says Christmas in Poland like the delightful aroma of Drożdżówka Sweet Yeast Bread baking in the oven. This traditional Polish Christmas treat is a soft and sweet bread filled with a mouthwatering mixture of dried fruits, nuts, and spices. A perfect blend of warm flavors that will envelop your home and make your holiday season even more special. Here’s how you can bring a touch of Polish festive charm to your kitchen with this delicious recipe for Drożdżówka Sweet Yeast Bread.
**Drożdżówka Sweet Yeast Bread**
**Ingredients:**
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup warm milk
– ½ cup granulated sugar
– 1 package active dry yeast
– ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 tsp salt
– ½ cup raisins
– ½ cup chopped walnuts
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– Zest of 1 orange
– Powdered sugar for dusting
**Instructions:**
1. In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm milk and let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture.
3. Add the melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract to the flour mixture. Mix everything together until a soft dough forms.
4. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead it for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and grease a baking pan.
7. Punch down the risen dough and roll it out into a rectangle on a floured surface.
8. In a small bowl, mix together the raisins, chopped walnuts, cinnamon, and orange zest. Spread this mixture evenly over the dough.
9. Roll up the dough tightly from the long side to form a log. Pinch the seams to seal and place the loaf seam side down in the prepared baking pan.
10. Cover the dough with a kitchen towel and let it rise for an additional 30 minutes.
11. Bake the Drożdżówka Sweet Yeast Bread in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
12. Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
13. Dust the Drożdżówka Sweet Yeast Bread with powdered sugar before serving.
14. Slice, serve, and savor the festive flavors of this delicious traditional Polish Christmas bread!
This recipe for Drożdżówka Sweet Yeast Bread will fill your home with the warmth and joy of the holiday season. The combination of sweet bread, dried fruits, and nuts will create a heavenly aroma that will have everyone gathering around the table for a slice. Whether enjoyed with a cup of tea or as part of your Christmas brunch, this Polish treat is sure to become a favorite in your holiday baking repertoire. So, delight your loved ones with this homemade Drożdżówka and create cherished memories that will last for years to come.
