Save A festive and dazzling sweet bread shaped like a crown, adorned with colorful candied fruits and sugar pearls—a showstopping centerpiece perfect for celebrations.
This has become a favorite at our holiday gatherings, with everyone anticipating the surprise inside and the beautiful presentation.
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Ingredients
- Dough: 500 g all-purpose flour, 80 g granulated sugar, 1 packet (7 g) active dry yeast, 200 ml warm milk, 2 large eggs, 100 g unsalted butter, softened, 1 tsp salt, zest of 1 orange, 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Decoration: 100 g assorted candied fruits (cherries, orange peel, citron), 2 tbsp pearl sugar, 1 egg yolk (for egg wash), 1 tbsp milk (for egg wash), 1 tbsp apricot jam (for glazing)
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Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a large bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
- Step 2:
- Add flour, sugar, salt, orange zest, vanilla, eggs, and softened butter. Mix until a soft dough forms.
- Step 3:
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Step 4:
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Step 5:
- Punch down the dough and shape it into a large ring (crown) on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Step 6:
- Cover loosely and let rise for another 30 40 minutes.
- Step 7:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Step 8:
- Whisk the egg yolk with milk and brush over the risen dough.
- Step 9:
- Decorate the crown with candied fruits and pearl sugar, pressing them gently into the dough.
- Step 10:
- Bake for 25 30 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Step 11:
- While still warm, brush the crown with warmed apricot jam for shine. Let cool before serving.
Save For a traditional surprise, hide a small figurine (fève) inside the dough before baking to delight your guests.
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Required Tools
Large mixing bowl, stand mixer (optional), baking sheet, parchment paper, pastry brush
Allergen Information
Contains gluten (wheat), eggs, and dairy (butter, milk). Candied fruits may contain traces of nuts or sulfites check labels if concerned.
Nutritional Information
Calories 340, Total Fat 9 g, Carbohydrates 56 g, Protein 7 g per serving
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This festive bread brings warmth and joy to any celebration with its beautiful appearance and delightful taste.
Recipe FAQs
- → What gives the dough its soft texture?
The combination of warm milk, butter, and eggs helps create a soft, tender dough with a rich texture.
- → How is the glossy finish achieved?
Brushing a mixture of egg yolk and milk on the dough before baking, followed by apricot jam glaze after baking, provides a shiny, attractive surface.
- → Can I substitute the candied fruits?
Yes, you can use a variety of candied fruits or add slivered almonds for added crunch and flavor.
- → Why is the dough allowed to rise twice?
First rise develops flavor and texture; the second rise after shaping ensures a light, airy crumb and proper crown shape.
- → What are common serving suggestions?
This sweet crown pairs well with a glass of sweet wine or sparkling cider, making it perfect for festive celebrations.
