Delicious Walnut Braid

This delightful walnut braid is a must-try for anyone who loves nutty flavors and soft, tender pastries. Combining simple ingredients such as flour, yeast, sugar, and milk, this braided bread is elevated with a rich hazelnut filling. The nuts provide a delicious crunch, while the cocoa and cinnamon add a warm, aromatic touch. Whether enjoyed as a breakfast treat or an afternoon snack, this braid is both comforting and satisfying. The preparation process is engaging and allows for some creativity when shaping the braid. The result is a beautifully golden loaf that is perfect for sharing with friends and family. This recipe is rewarding, both in taste and in the joy of baking something special. Follow this step-by-step guide to create your own walnut braid masterpiece!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

500 g flour
7 g dry yeast
80 g sugar
1 egg
250 ml milk
1 tsp salt

For the Nut Filling:

300 g hazelnuts
2 tbsp cocoa
1 egg
3 tbsp sugar
100 ml milk
Cinnamon

Preparation Time

Total: 110 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

In a large bowl, combine the flour, dry yeast, sugar, egg, milk, and salt.
Knead the dough for 7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a warm area, covered, and allow it to rise for one hour.
Meanwhile, chop the hazelnuts into sizeable chunks for a more interesting texture.
In a separate bowl, mix together the hazelnuts, cocoa, egg, sugar, milk, and a sprinkle of cinnamon to create the filling.
Once the dough has risen, roll it out into a rectangular shape on a floured surface.
Spread the hazelnut mixture evenly over the rolled-out dough.
To form the braid, slice the dough into strips and carefully weave them together.
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
Transfer the braided dough onto a lined baking sheet.
Bake in the preheated oven for 35 minutes, or until golden brown.
While baking, periodically check to ensure an even bake.
Prepare a glaze by mixing lemon juice with powdered sugar for a sweet-tart finish.
Once baked, remove the braid from the oven and allow it to cool slightly.
Generously brush with the prepared glaze for added flavor and shine.
Optionally, dust with extra powdered sugar for a decorative effect.
Let the braid cool completely on a wire rack before slicing.
Serve warm or at room temperature, allowing the flavors to meld.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Enjoy your homemade walnut braid with a cup of coffee or tea.

Tips

Substitution: Use almonds or walnuts for a different nutty flavor.
Technique: Ensure the dough is well-kneaded for a light, airy texture.
Temperature: Keep dough in a warm space to achieve a good rise.

Nutritions

Calories: Approximately 300 per slice
Protein: 8g
Fats: 15g
Carbs: 35g

Variations

Add a dash of vanilla extract to the nut filling for extra aroma.
For a vegan version, substitute the egg and milk with plant-based alternatives.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Pair with fresh berries for a burst of color and flavor.

Best Places

Le Pain Quotidien - European-style café offering authentic pastries. Location: 64 rue de Seine, Paris, France.
Balthazar Bakery - Famous for its artisan bread and pastries. Location: 80 Spring Street, New York, USA.
Cafe Sacher - Renowned for traditional Viennese desserts. Location: Philharmoniker Strasse 4, Vienna, Austria.
Pasticceria Marchesi - Historic pastry shop with delicious offerings. Location: Via Monte Napoleone 9, Milan, Italy.
Zeitz MOCAA Cafe - Enjoy bakery items with a contemporary twist. Location: Silo District, Cape Town, South Africa.
Café Tortoni - Buenos Aires' famous café serving classic pastries. Location: Avenida de Mayo 825, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
Peters Yard - Known for its Swedish-inspired baking goods. Location: 6a Queensferry St., Edinburgh, UK.
Japan's Kitakaro Factory - Delightful sweets and baked treats. Location: 2-5-5 Moto-Machi, Otaru City, Japan.
Istanbul's Hafiz Mustafa - Ottoman-style confectionery shop. Location: Hocapaşa Mahallesi, Istanbul, Turkey.
Café Savoy - Lavish café with grand pastries. Location: Vítězná 124/5, Prague, Czech Republic.