Kalács – Braided Sweet Hungarian Holiday Bread

🇭🇺 Kalács – Braided Sweet Hungarian Holiday Bread

🧾 Ingredients:

• 500 g all-purpose flour
• 250 ml milk (lukewarm)
• 80 g sugar
• 80 g butter (softened)
• 2 egg yolks
• 7 g dry yeast (or 20 g fresh yeast)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 pinch salt

For brushing:

• 1 egg

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👩‍🍳 Instructions:

1. Activate yeast:
   Mix yeast with lukewarm milk and a little sugar. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.

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2. Make the dough:
   In a bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt.
3. Add butter, egg yolks, vanilla, and yeast mixture.
4. Knead into a smooth, soft dough (about 8–10 minutes).

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5. Let it rise:
   Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours until doubled.

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6. Shape the braid:
   Divide dough into 3 equal parts.
7. Roll each into long ropes and braid them together.
8. Place on a lined baking tray.

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9. Second rise:
   Cover and let rise again for 30–40 minutes.

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Prepare for baking:
Brush with beaten egg for a shiny finish.