Swiss Grittibänz Recipe: A Delightful Traditional Swiss Yeast Bread
Grittibänz, a traditional Swiss holiday bread, is shaped into charming little human figures and enjoyed especially during the festive season. With a soft, buttery texture and subtle sweetness, these yeasted delights are both visually appealing and delicious. Here’s how to make your very own Grittibänz at home!
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour (00) | 500g |
| Sugar | 40g |
| Whole milk | 250g |
| Butter | 60g |
| Egg | 1 |
| Fresh yeast (or dry yeast) | 12g |
| Salt | to taste |
| Chopped hazelnuts | to taste |
| Chopped pistachios | to taste |
| Sugar crystals (for topping) | to taste |
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Yeast Mixture
Begin by melting the butter in a small saucepan along with the whole milk. Allow the mixture to cool until it reaches room temperature. Once cooled, crumble the fresh yeast into the milk and butter mixture, stirring in a teaspoon of sugar. Let the yeast dissolve and activate.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
In a stand mixer with the dough hook (or in a large bowl if working by hand), combine the all-purpose flour and sugar. Begin mixing on medium speed, gradually adding the cooled milk and yeast mixture. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. A few minutes before the dough is fully kneaded, sprinkle in a teaspoon of salt to incorporate.
Step 3: Let the Dough Rise
Shape the dough into a ball and cover it with plastic wrap. Allow the dough to rise in a warm, draft-free area for 2-3 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
Step 4: Shape the Grittibänz
Once the dough has risen, divide it into 12 equal pieces. Take each piece and roll it into a cylinder shape. For each cylinder, create arms and legs by making small cuts at the ends of the dough. Shape the top to form the head. Use any leftover dough to create decorative accessories like scarves, hats, and even tiny pipes to give your figures a truly whimsical appearance.
Step 5: Decorate
Beat the egg in a small bowl and brush it over the surface of each dough figure. Then, generously sprinkle chopped hazelnuts, pistachios, and sugar crystals onto the figures to decorate their shoes, hats, and bodies.
Step 6: Bake
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange your decorated Grittibänz on the sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.
Step 7: Serve
Once your Grittibänz have cooled, they’re ready to be enjoyed! These sweet, festive figures make for a perfect treat during the holidays or as a fun activity to do with the family.
Nutritional Information (approximate per serving):
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Protein | 5g |
| Fat | 12g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sugar | 12g |
| Sodium | 100mg |
These traditional Swiss Grittibänz are not only a delight to eat, but they also make a charming centerpiece for any holiday gathering. With their soft texture, buttery flavor, and festive appearance, they are sure to be a hit with both children and adults alike. Enjoy the process of creating these delightful figures and share the joy of the season with a homemade treat that’s as beautiful as it is tasty!
