Rosinen Hefezopf

Nothing quite beats the delightful aroma of fresh bread baking in the oven. Rosinen Hefezopf, a traditional German sweet bread braided with raisins, makes for a perfect treat to enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee. The combination of soft, fluffy dough and sweet, plump raisins is sure to warm both your belly and your home. Whether you’re a seasoned bread baker or looking to try your hand at something new, this recipe will guide you through every step to create a delicious Rosinen Hefezopf right in your own kitchen.

Rosinen Hefezopf

Ingredients:
– 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/3 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
– 1/2 cup warm milk
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 eggs
– 1/2 cup raisins
– 1 egg yolk mixed with 1 tablespoon milk, for egg wash

Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy. This indicates that the yeast is active.

2. Add the melted butter, sugar, salt, and one of the eggs to the yeast mixture. Mix well with a wooden spoon.

3. Gradually add the flour to the wet ingredients, stirring until a dough forms. You may need to use your hands to knead the dough until it becomes smooth and slightly sticky. This should take about 5-7 minutes.

4. Gently fold in the raisins, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

5. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and place it in a warm, draft-free area to rise. Let the dough rise for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

6. Once the dough has risen, transfer it to a floured surface and divide it into three equal parts. Roll each part out into a long rope, about 1 inch thick.

7. Pinch the ends of the three ropes together and braid them, tucking the ends under to seal.

8. Transfer the braided dough to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover it with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise for another 30 minutes.

9. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).

10. In a small bowl, whisk the egg yolk with milk to create an egg wash. Brush the top of the braided bread with the egg wash.

11. Bake the Rosinen Hefezopf in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until it turns golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

12. Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving. Enjoy your freshly baked Rosinen Hefezopf with butter or jam alongside your favorite hot beverage.

So there you have it – a warm, soft Rosinen Hefezopf that will fill your home with the irresistible scent of freshly baked bread. Whether you make it for a special occasion or as a weekend indulgence, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to create a delicious treat that will delight your taste buds and warm your soul. Happy baking!