Houska (Czech Braided Bread)

Transport your taste buds to the heart of Central Europe with Houska, a traditional Czech braided bread that's as stunning to look at as it is delightful to eat. This golden loaf combines a pillowy, slightly sweet dough with the nutty crunch of slivered almonds and the earthy flavor of poppy seeds, creating a bread that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy afternoon snack. The artful braid not only makes for an eye-catching centerpiece but also symbolizes togetherness—a true celebration of heritage baking. With simple ingredients like warm milk, eggs, and butter, this recipe is approachable yet impressive, while the hands-on braiding technique adds a touch of charm to your baking routine. Serve warm with a pat of butter, or pair it with your favorite jam or honey for a comforting treat that brings a taste of Czech tradition to your kitchen.

Nutriscore Rating: 68/100

Prep Time:150 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:180 mins

Servings: 10

Ingredients

• 4 cups All-purpose flour
• 2.25 teaspoons Active dry yeast
• 1 tablespoon Granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 1.5 cups Warm milk
• 4 tablespoons Unsalted butter, melted
• 2 whole Large eggs
• 1 whole Egg yolk
• 1 tablespoon Poppy seeds
• 2 tablespoons Slivered almonds

Directions

Step 1

In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in the warm milk with the sugar. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy.

Step 2

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture, melted butter, and 2 eggs.

Step 3

Mix the ingredients together to form a shaggy dough. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.

Step 4

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean cloth, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Step 5

Punch down the dough and transfer it to a lightly floured surface. Divide the dough into three equal parts.

Step 6

Roll each part into a long rope, around 18 inches in length.

Step 7

Pinch the top ends of the dough ropes together and braid them gently, pinching the ends to seal.

Step 8

Transfer the braided loaf to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover with a cloth and let rise for another 30 minutes.

Step 9

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 10

In a small bowl, beat the egg yolk with a tablespoon of water. Brush the risen bread with the egg yolk mixture.

Step 11

Sprinkle the poppy seeds and slivered almonds over the top of the bread.

Step 12

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped.

Step 13

Remove from the oven and let cool on a wire rack before slicing. Enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1114.4 grams (1114.4g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2969

Total Fat 104.90g	134%
Saturated Fat 41.40g	207%
Polyunsaturated Fat NaNg
Cholesterol 711mg	237%
Sodium 2686mg	117%
Total Carbohydrate 416.70g	152%
Dietary Fiber 22.20g	79%
Total Sugars 34.40g
Protein 93.10g	186%

Vitamin D 245IU	1226%
Calcium 867mg	67%
Iron 28mg	156%
Potassium 1858mg	40%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 31.6%

Protein: 12.5%

Carbs: 55.9%