Povitica: Austrian Holiday Bread Recipe π
Prepare to embark on a delightful journey of flavors with this traditional Austrian sweet Christmas bread, Povitica! Originating from Austria and also beloved in Poland, this recipe encapsulates the essence of holiday cheer and European culinary traditions.
Overview:
- Preparation Time: 4 hours
- Cooking Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours
- Servings: 1 very large spiral loaf
Ingredients:
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 1 | cup milk |
| 1 1/2 | cups sugar |
| 1/4 | cup butter |
| 1 1/2 | cups warm water |
| 2 | eggs |
| 1/2 | teaspoon ground cinnamon |
| 3 | cups all-purpose flour |
| 9 | cups ground walnuts |
| 2 | cups milk |
| 2 | tablespoons butter |
| 1/4 | cup sugar |
| 2 1/2 | teaspoons vanilla extract |
| 4 | eggs |
Instructions:
1. Preparing the Dough:
- Dissolve yeast in 1/2 cup warm water, ensuring it’s thoroughly mixed.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the dissolved yeast mixture with the remaining ingredients except for the flour.
- Gradually incorporate about 9 cups of all-purpose flour into the mixture. Note that the exact amount of flour needed may vary based on factors like temperature and humidity. Add flour until you achieve a smooth, pliable, non-sticky dough.
- Knead the dough well until it’s elastic and cohesive.
2. First Rising:
- Allow the dough to rise in a warm, draft-free place for approximately 2 hours. It should double in size during this time.
3. Preparing the Filling:
- While the dough is rising, prepare the filling by mixing together the ground walnuts, milk, butter, sugar, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and eggs. Ensure the mixture is well combined and set it aside.
4. Assembling the Povitica:
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release any trapped air.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface, ensuring there are no holes.
- Spread the prepared filling evenly over the rolled-out dough, covering the entire surface.
5. Rolling and Shaping:
- Carefully roll up the dough with the filling, forming it into a long, cylindrical shape resembling a snake.
- Coil the rolled dough into a spiral shape and place it in a large greased roaster or baking dish.
6. Second Rising:
- Allow the assembled Povitica to rise for an additional 2 hours in the greased roaster. This allows the flavors to meld and the dough to rise further.
7. Baking:
- Preheat your oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C).
- Once the Povitica has completed its second rise, bake it in the preheated oven for about 2 hours, or until it’s golden brown and cooked through.
- Keep an eye on it during baking to prevent excessive browning, covering it with foil if necessary.
8. Serving:
- Once baked, allow the Povitica to cool slightly before slicing.
- Serve warm or at room temperature, and savor the rich, nutty, and sweet flavors of this festive holiday bread.
Enjoy the festive spirit and the warmth of the holiday season with this delightful Austrian Povitica bread, a cherished tradition that brings joy to every bite! π π
