Kozinjak; Козињак is a famous sweet bread that is usually baked around holidays in the Balkan region. The bread comes in different names and recipes. This bread is extra especial for its rich and has raisins and citrus zest in it. Also Kozinjak has a distinct form and shape that will adore your table.
I will be following a Macedonian recipe which you can watch in this video:
Ingredients:
- 1/3 cup lukewarm milk
- 2 tsp flour
- 1 tsp sugar
- 6 tsp dried instant yeast
- 5 cups flour
- 2/3 cup lukewarm milk
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 2/3 cup sugar
- 3 eggs at room temperature
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 tsp lemon or orange zest
- 3/4 cup raisins
Tips:
- The milk should be around 40C and the eggs at room temperature.
- If the dough seems a bit too dry you can add some milk one tablespoon at a time until the dough is soft and doesn’t stick to the hand.
- Knead the dough for 10-15 mins until it becomes elastic and smooth.
- Leave the dough to prove in a warm place until it double in size for 1,1/2 hours. After that we knead the dough again for 5 mins and leave again to prove for 45 mins.
- When shaping the bread you can use different braiding techniques. The one shown in the video is easy and traditional.
- After shaping the bread leave to rest for 45 mins.
- Bake the Kozinjak in a preheated oven at 180 C for 30-4 mins or until golden.
