Quirky Foodster

Breads

Kozunak

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35 min
Cook

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Ingredients

  • - 500 g (4 cups) strong bread flour
  • - 100 g (1/2 cup) sugar
  • - 200 ml (3/4 cup + 1 tbsp) warm milk
  • - 3 eggs
  • - 80 g (1/3 cup) butter, melted
  • - 10 g (2 1/4 tsp) instant yeast
  • - 80 g (1/2 cup) raisins
  • - Zest of 1 lemon
  • - 1 egg yolk, for glazing

Method

  1. Dissolve yeast in warm milk with a pinch of sugar; let stand 10 minutes until foamy.
  2. Mix flour, remaining sugar, eggs, melted butter, lemon zest and the yeast mixture into a soft dough.
  3. Knead for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic, then fold in raisins.
  4. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1.5-2 hours until doubled.
  5. Divide dough into strands and braid, placing in a greased tin or tray.
  6. Let rise again for 30-40 minutes, then brush with egg yolk.
  7. Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 30-35 minutes until deep golden and cooked through.

Introduction: Kozunak is a sweet, braided egg-enriched bread studded with raisins, traditionally baked for Easter and blessed at church, similar in spirit to Italian panettone or Greek tsoureki.

Cultural Background: Kozunak is a sweet, braided egg-enriched bread studded with raisins, traditionally baked for Easter and blessed at church, similar in spirit to Italian panettone or Greek tsoureki.

Tips: Kneading thoroughly develops the gluten needed for the characteristic pull-apart texture. A warm, draft-free spot speeds the rise.

Variations: Add a coin wrapped in foil for New Year kozunak, a tradition symbolizing luck for whoever finds it. Some versions include Turkish delight (lokum) pieces in the dough. Contains eggs, milk and butter; not suitable for vegan diets without significant adaptation.

Storage: Store covered at room temperature for up to 4 days.

Reheating: Best enjoyed at room temperature; lightly toasting slices refreshes older bread.

Nutrition: Approx. 280 kcal, 7g protein, 9g fat, 44g carbs per slice (based on 12 slices).

FAQs:

Q: Can kozunak be frozen?
A: Yes, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months; thaw at room temperature.

Q: Is kozunak only for Easter?
A: It’s most associated with Easter, though a version with a hidden coin is also made for New Year.