Discover how to make Cozonac, a delicious and festive sweet bread traditionally enjoyed during holidays. This recipe features a rich dough filled with nuts, cocoa, and raisins, perfect for celebrating special occasions. Learn step-by-step how to create this mouthwatering treat that’s sure to impress your family and friends.

Ingredients:

- 4 cups all-purpose flour

- 1 cup milk

- 1/2 cup sugar

- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

- 2 large eggs

- 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 tsp)

- 1/4 cup warm water

- 1/2 tsp salt

- 1 cup chopped walnuts or hazelnuts

- 1/2 cup cocoa powder

- 1/2 cup raisins

- 1 tsp vanilla extract

- 1 egg, beaten (for brushing)

Instructions:

Prepare the Dough:

  - In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.

  - In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.

  - In another bowl, whisk together milk, sugar, eggs, and softened butter until well blended.

  - Make a well in the center of the flour mixture and pour in the milk mixture and yeast mixture. Mix until a dough forms.

Knead and Rise:

  - Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes, or until smooth and elastic.

  - Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.

Prepare the Filling:

  - In a small bowl, combine chopped nuts, cocoa powder, and raisins. Set aside.

Shape the Cozonac:

  - Punch down the risen dough and divide it into two equal portions.

  - Roll out each portion into a rectangle on a floured surface.

  - Sprinkle the filling evenly over the dough, then roll up each rectangle tightly from one end to the other.

Bake:

  - Place the rolled dough into greased loaf pans.

  - Brush the tops with the beaten egg.

  - Let the loaves rise for an additional 30 minutes.

  - Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the loaves for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve:

  - Allow the Cozonac to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

  - Slice and serve. Enjoy your festive, sweet bread!

This Cozonac recipe is perfect for adding a touch of tradition and sweetness to any holiday celebration.

Nutritional Values

All-Purpose Flour

   - Calories: 455

   - Protein: 13g

   - Carbohydrates: 95g

   - Fiber: 3g

   - Fat: 1g

Benefits:

   - Provides energy through carbohydrates.

   - Contains small amounts of iron, which supports oxygen transport in the blood.

   - Protein content contributes to muscle repair and growth.

Milk

   - Calories: 149

   - Protein: 8g

   - Carbohydrates: 12g

   - Fat: 8g

   - Calcium: 276mg

Benefits:

   - Rich in calcium, essential for strong bones and teeth.

   - Contains vitamin D, which aids in calcium absorption and bone health.

   - Good source of high-quality protein for muscle repair and growth.

Sugar

   - Calories: 387

   - Carbohydrates: 100g

Benefits:

   - Provides a quick source of energy.

   - Enhances flavor in baked goods.

   - Best consumed in moderation due to its impact on blood sugar levels.

Unsalted Butter

   - Calories: 814

   - Fat: 92g

   - Saturated Fat: 58g

   - Vitamin A: 1500 IU

Benefits:

   - Rich source of vitamin A, essential for eye health and immune function.

   - Contains healthy fats that provide energy and aid in nutrient absorption.

   - Adds flavor and texture to baked goods.

Eggs

   - Calories: 148

   - Protein: 12g

   - Fat: 10g

   - Vitamin B12: 1.1mcg

   - Selenium: 28mcg

Benefits:

   - High in protein, supporting muscle repair and growth.

   - Rich in vitamin B12, important for nerve function and red blood cell formation.

   - Contains choline, which supports brain health.

Active Dry Yeast

   - Calories: 21

   - Protein: 3g

   - Fiber: 2g

Benefits:

   - Yeast provides B vitamins that support energy metabolism.

   - Contains small amounts of protein and fiber, contributing to satiety.

   - Helps leaven the bread, creating a light and airy texture.

Chopped Nuts (Walnuts)

   - Calories: 765

   - Protein: 18g

   - Fat: 76g (Omega-3 fatty acids: 10g)

   - Fiber: 8g

Benefits:

   - Rich in healthy fats, particularly omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart health.

   - High in antioxidants that reduce inflammation and support overall health.

   - Good source of protein and fiber, promoting satiety.

Cocoa Powder

   - Calories: 98

   - Protein: 8g

   - Fiber: 14g

   - Iron: 7mg

Benefits:

   - High in antioxidants, particularly flavonoids, which support heart health.

   - Contains fiber, aiding in digestion and maintaining a healthy gut.

   - Provides a small amount of iron, which is important for red blood cell production.

Raisins

   - Calories: 217

   - Carbohydrates: 57g

   - Fiber: 3g

   - Potassium: 618mg

Benefits:

   - Rich in natural sugars, providing a quick energy boost.

   - High in fiber, supporting digestive health.

   - Contains potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure.

Vanilla Extract

   - Calories: 12

   - Carbohydrates: 0.5g

Benefits:

   - Adds flavor and aroma to baked goods without adding many calories.

   - Contains trace antioxidants that may help reduce inflammation.

Egg (for brushing)

   - Calories: 74

   - Protein: 6g

   - Fat: 5g

Benefits:

   - Helps create a golden, shiny crust on baked goods.

   - Adds additional protein and nutrients like vitamin B12 and selenium.

By incorporating these ingredients, Cozonac not only becomes a delicious holiday treat but also provides a variety of nutrients that contribute to overall health and well-being.