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 recipe has become a holiday tradition in my family, creating a festive atmosphere with each bite.
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)
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 Our family eagerly awaits the moment to cut into the crown and find the hidden figurine, making celebrations even more joyful.
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
Per serving: Calories 340, Total Fat 9 g, Carbohydrates 56 g, Protein 7 g
Save This crowning recipe will impress guests and bring warmth to your celebrations every time.
Recipe FAQs
- → What kind of flour is best for this bread?
All-purpose flour provides the right balance of structure and softness to create a tender, airy crumb.
- → How do I know when the dough has risen enough?
Let the dough double in size during the first rise and appear puffy and slightly domed during the second before baking.
- → Can I substitute the candied fruits?
Yes, you can use any assortment of candied fruits or add slivered almonds for extra texture and flavor.
- → What is the purpose of the apricot jam glaze?
The warm apricot jam adds a glossy finish and a touch of sweetness to enhance the bread’s appearance and taste.
- → How should this bread be stored after baking?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature; consume within two days for optimal freshness.