Looking to add a touch of elegance to your Easter celebrations this year? Why not bake a delightful Osterkranz – a traditional German Easter bread that is sure to impress your family and friends with its beautiful shape and delicious taste. This sweet and fragrant bread, shaped into a wreath, is perfect for brunch or as a delightful treat to enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee. Let’s dive into how to make this festive bakery masterpiece in your own kitchen.
**Osterkranz**
**Ingredients:**
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
– 1/2 cup lukewarm milk
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 eggs
– 1/2 tsp salt
– Zest of 1 lemon
– Zest of 1 orange
– 1/2 cup mixed dried fruits (such as raisins, currants, and chopped apricots)
– 1 egg yolk for egg wash
– Sliced almonds for decoration
– Powdered sugar for dusting
**Instructions:**
1. **Activate the Yeast:** In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast and a pinch of sugar in lukewarm milk. Allow the mixture to rest for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
2. **Prepare the Dough:** In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, lemon zest, orange zest, and salt. Make a well in the center and add the melted butter, eggs, and the yeast mixture. Mix until the dough comes together.
3. **Knead the Dough:** Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Incorporate the dried fruits during this process.
4. **First Rise:** Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
5. **Shape the Osterkranz:** Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into three equal parts. Roll each part into a long rope, roughly 20 inches in length. Braid the ropes together, pinching the ends to seal and form a wreath shape.
6. **Second Rise:** Transfer the braided dough to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover with a kitchen towel and allow it to rise for another 45 minutes to 1 hour.
7. **Preheat the Oven:** While the dough is rising for the second time, preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
8. **Bake the Osterkranz:** Brush the dough with the egg yolk wash and sprinkle sliced almonds on top for decoration. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and fully baked.
9. **Cool and Serve:** Once baked, transfer the Osterkranz to a wire rack to cool. Dust with powdered sugar before serving. This bread is best enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
And there you have it – a stunning Osterkranz that will not only fill your home with the aroma of fresh-baked bread but also become a centerpiece on your Easter table. Surprise your loved ones with this delightful treat and watch them marvel at your baking skills. Happy Easter baking!
