Bulgarian Sweet Bread with Walnuts and Raisins Recipe

Bulgarian Walnut and Raisin Sweet Bread

Discover the rich and delightful flavors of the Balkan region with this traditional Bulgarian Walnut and Raisin Sweet Bread. A splendid combination of walnuts and raisins infused with the zest of lemon and the warmth of vanilla. Perfect for an intimate dinner for two, this recipe brings the warmth of Bulgarian cuisine right to your table.

Serves: 2, Difficulty: Intermediate

Ingredients

• 200g plain flour
• 50g sugar
• 50g butter, softened
• 2 eggs
• 50ml milk
• 10g fresh yeast
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 lemon, zest and 1 tablespoon of juice
• 50g walnuts, ground
• 20g raisins
• 1 tablespoon rum
• 1 tablespoon cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 pinch of salt

Method

• In a small bowl, dissolve the fresh yeast in the milk and let it sit for 10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
• In a large bowl, mix the flour, sugar, salt, and cinnamon.
• Add the softened butter, eggs, vanilla extract, lemon zest, lemon juice, and the yeast mixture. Mix until a dough forms.
• Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour.
• In a small bowl, mix the ground walnuts, raisins, and rum.
• Roll the dough into a rectangle. Spread the walnut and raisin mixture evenly over the dough and sprinkle with cocoa powder.
• Roll the dough tightly into a log and shape it into a spiral. Place it in a buttered baking dish.
• Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
• Preheat the oven to 180°C.
• Brush the dough with a little melted butter and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
• Let the bread cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving warm.

Tips

• For a richer flavor, let the raisin and walnut mixture soak in the rum overnight.
• Pair this sweet bread with a cup of Bulgarian rose tea for an authentic experience.

Nutritional Information