During the holiday season, there’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of freshly baked goods filling your home. If you’re looking to add a touch of German tradition to your Christmas baking repertoire, this recipe for Nussbrot Mit Krokant, or Nut Bread with Caramel Brittle, is sure to delight your family and friends. This rich and nutty bread is perfect for serving at festive gatherings or as a thoughtful homemade gift.
Nussbrot Mit Krokant – Nut Bread with Caramel Brittle
Ingredients:
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 packet active dry yeast
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 eggs
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup mixed nuts (such as walnuts, pecans, and almonds), chopped
– 1/2 cup caramel brittle, crushed
– 1/4 cup honey
– Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, heat the milk and butter over low heat until the butter has melted. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool to lukewarm.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sugar and yeast. Pour the lukewarm milk mixture over the sugar and yeast, stirring gently to combine. Let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes, or until foamy.
3. Add the flour, eggs, and salt to the bowl with the yeast mixture. Stir until a soft dough forms.
4. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, or until smooth and elastic. 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.
5. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
6. Punch down the risen dough and knead in the chopped nuts and caramel brittle until well distributed.
7. Shape the dough into a round loaf and place it on the prepared baking sheet. Cover the loaf with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise for an additional 30 minutes.
8. Bake the nut bread in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. If the top begins to brown too quickly, tent the loaf with foil.
9. Remove the nut bread from the oven and brush the top with honey while it’s still warm. Allow the bread to cool on a wire rack.
10. Once the nut bread has cooled completely, dust the top with powdered sugar for a finishing touch.
Enjoy a slice of this Nussbrot Mit Krokant, Nut Bread with Caramel Brittle, with a warm cup of tea or coffee on a cozy winter day. Its crunchy bits of nuts and sweet caramel brittle will surely make it a holiday favorite for years to come. Share the love by gifting this delicious bread to your loved ones during this festive season. Happy baking!
