Okrugli Vrsak (Croatian Bread) Recipe π₯
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
Yield: 1 loaf
Description:
This Okrugli Vrsak bread recipe, originating from Croatian culinary traditions, is a delightful treat for any occasion. Perfectly balanced with a hint of sweetness and a burst of flavor, this European-inspired bread will elevate your baking game. ππ·
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups butter
- 1 cup oleo
- 6 cups confectioners’ sugar
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 lemon (juice and zest)
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 cup poppy seeds (optional)
- Raisins or fruit mix (optional)
- Nuts (optional)
Instructions:
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Prepare Ingredients: Begin by gathering all the necessary ingredients for this delectable Croatian bread. Preheat your oven to 325Β°F (163Β°C) and grease a tube pan or loaf pan.
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Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and confectioners’ sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for achieving a soft and tender texture in your bread.
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Incorporate Eggs: Add the eggs to the butter-sugar mixture one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Beat well after each addition to create a smooth and creamy batter.
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Add Flavorings: Stir in the vanilla extract and the zest and juice of one lemon to infuse the batter with refreshing citrus notes. These flavorings will enhance the overall taste of the bread, adding depth and complexity to each bite.
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Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour and baking powder. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, incorporating it one cup at a time. Mix gently until just combined, being careful not to overmix, as this can result in a dense texture.
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Optional Additions: For extra texture and flavor, consider adding poppy seeds, raisins, fruit mix, or nuts to the batter. If using raisins or fruit mix, sprinkle them with a little flour before adding them to prevent them from sinking to the bottom of the loaf during baking.
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Bake to Perfection: Transfer the batter to the prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour and 15-25 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and serve this delightful Okrugli Vrsak bread with your favorite spreads or enjoy it on its own as a delightful snack or dessert.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 6563.8
- Fat: 311.7g
- Saturated Fat: 185.1g
- Cholesterol: 2001.1mg
- Sodium: 3780.7mg
- Carbohydrates: 852.7g
- Fiber: 18.6g
- Sugar: 449.6g
- Protein: 93.6g
Indulge in the rich flavors and irresistible aroma of this Okrugli Vrsak bread, a beloved Croatian delicacy that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Whether enjoyed with a cup of coffee in the morning or as a sweet treat after dinner, this bread is bound to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. π
