Czech Christmas Bread Recipe

Name: Czech Christmas Bread
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 packages (1/4 ounce each) active dry yeast; 1/2 cup warm water (110u00b0 to 115u00b0); 3/4 cup sugar; 3/4 cup warm milk (110u00b0 to 115u00b0); 1/2 cup butter, softened; 2 large eggs, room temperature; 1 tablespoon grated lemon zest; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon ground mace; 5-1/2 to 6 cups all-purpose flour; 3/4 cup golden raisins; 1 large egg yolk; 1 tablespoon water

Servings: persons

2 packages (1/4 ounce each) active dry yeast
1/2 cup warm water (110u00b0 to 115u00b0)
3/4 cup sugar
3/4 cup warm milk (110u00b0 to 115u00b0)
1/2 cup butter, softened
2 large eggs, room temperature
1 tablespoon grated lemon zest
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground mace
5-1/2 to 6 cups all-purpose flour
3/4 cup golden raisins
1 large egg yolk
1 tablespoon water

1
In a large bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water. Add the sugar, milk, butter, eggs, lemon zest, salt, mace and 3 cups flour. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes or until smooth. Stir in enough remaining flour to form a soft dough (dough will be sticky).
2
Turn onto a lightly floured surface; knead until smooth and elastic, about 6-8 minutes. Place in a greased bowl, turning once to grease top. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1 hour.
3
Punch dough down. Turn onto a lightly floured surface; knead in raisins. Divide dough into six equal portions. Shape each into a 20-in. rope. Place three ropes on a greased
4
; braid. Pinch ends to seal and tuck under. Repeat with remaining ropes.
5
Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 45 minutes. Beat egg yolk and water; brush over loaves. Bake at 350u00b0 for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown. Cool on wire racks.

940

kcal

Calories

Fat

136

Carbs

Protein

Fat Carbs Protein

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.

Tips for the best results

Read through all the steps once before you start and measure out your ingredients first — it makes everything go more smoothly.
Preheat the oven fully and bake on the middle rack for the most even results.
Check for doneness a few minutes early — a toothpick in the center should come out with just a few moist crumbs.
Let it cool before slicing so it sets properly and holds its shape.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy within a few days.

Variations & substitutions

Use a neutral oil or a plant-based spread in place of butter for a dairy-free version.
Brown sugar instead of white sugar adds a deeper, more caramel-like flavor.
A good 1:1 gluten-free flour blend works well if you need a gluten-free version.

No specific allergen information. Please check the ingredient list for possible allergens.

My Personal Notes

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How did you like this recipe?

This recipe makes 4 servings. You can adjust the portion size directly on this page.

You need 13 ingredients. The key ingredients include: 2 packages (1/4 ounce each) active dry yeast, 1/2 cup warm water (110u00b0 to 115u00b0), 3/4 cup sugar, 3/4 cup warm milk (110u00b0 to 115u00b0), and more.

Yes, Czech Christmas Bread falls under the General category and is a great choice for this type of meal.

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3–5 days. For longer storage, freeze for up to 3 months — no need to refrigerate or reheat.

That's it — enjoy your meal!

Czech Christmas Bread

Tips for the best results

Variations & substitutions

My Personal Notes

How did you like this recipe?

Frequently Asked Questions