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Braided Sweet Bread

The Quirky Foodster Team

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Ingredients

  • 500 g (4 cups) plain flour
  • 80 g (6 tbsp) sugar
  • 2 tsp instant yeast
  • 200 ml (3/4 cup) warm milk
  • 2 eggs, plus 1 for egg wash
  • 80 g (5.5 tbsp) butter, softened
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 50 g (1/3 cup) raisins
  • 30 g (1/4 cup) flaked almonds

Method

  1. Dissolve the yeast and a pinch of sugar in the warm milk, and let stand until foamy, about 5 minutes.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the flour, remaining sugar and salt. Add the yeast mixture, 2 eggs and softened butter, and mix into a soft dough.
  3. Knead for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic, then knead in the raisins.
  4. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, until doubled in size.
  5. Divide the dough into strands and braid into a loaf shape, placing it on a lined baking tray.
  6. Cover and let rise for a further 30 minutes.
  7. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Brush the loaf with beaten egg and scatter over the flaked almonds.
  8. Bake for 30-35 minutes until deep golden brown and it sounds hollow when tapped on the base.

Introduction: Houska is a soft, mildly sweet braided bread enriched with eggs, milk and butter, often studded with raisins and
almonds.

Cultural Background: Houska is a soft, mildly sweet braided bread enriched with eggs, milk and butter, often studded with raisins and
almonds. Traditionally baked for Sunday mornings and festive breakfasts, its plaited shape is said to
symbolically echo old folk customs of braiding hair as a form of blessing.

Tips: A four-strand or six-strand braid gives the most traditional appearance, but a simple three-strand braid works
just as well for beginners.

Variations: Some bakers add a pinch of saffron or lemon zest to the dough for extra fragrance.

Storage: Store at room temperature wrapped in a cloth or bag for up to 2 days.

Reheating: Warm slices briefly in a toaster or oven to refresh; best enjoyed fresh or lightly toasted.

Nutrition: Approx. 230 kcal, 6g protein, 7g fat, 36g carbohydrate per slice (loaf serves 10).

FAQs

Q: Why is houska braided?
A: The braided shape is traditional and thought to symbolise old folk blessing customs, though today it's mostly kept for its festive appearance.

Q: Can I freeze houska dough?
A: Yes, freeze the shaped, unbaked loaf and thaw fully before its final rise and baking.

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