Save to Pinterest A festive and dazzling sweet bread shaped like a crown, adorned with colorful candied fruits and sugar pearls—a showstopping centerpiece perfect for celebrations.
This recipe has become a holiday tradition in my family because it brings both sweetness and elegance to our table.
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Ingredients
- Dough: 500 g all-purpose flour 80 g granulated sugar 1 packet (7 g) active dry yeast 200 ml warm milk 2 large eggs 100 g unsalted butter, softened 1 tsp salt Zest of 1 orange 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Decoration: 100 g assorted candied fruits (cherries, orange peel, citron) 2 tbsp pearl sugar 1 egg yolk (for egg wash) 1 tbsp milk (for egg wash) 1 tbsp apricot jam (for glazing)
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Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a large bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
- Step 2:
- Add flour, sugar, salt, orange zest, vanilla, eggs, and softened butter. Mix until a soft dough forms.
- Step 3:
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Step 4:
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Step 5:
- Punch down the dough and shape it into a large ring (crown) on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Step 6:
- Cover loosely and let rise for another 30–40 minutes.
- Step 7:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Step 8:
- Whisk the egg yolk with milk and brush over the risen dough.
- Step 9:
- Decorate the crown with candied fruits and pearl sugar, pressing them gently into the dough.
- Step 10:
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Step 11:
- While still warm, brush the crown with warmed apricot jam for shine. Let cool before serving.
Save to Pinterest Our family looks forward to this bread every holiday; hiding a small figurine inside the dough is always a fun surprise for the kids.
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Required Tools
Large mixing bowl Stand mixer (optional) Baking sheet Parchment paper Pastry brush
Allergen Information
Contains gluten (wheat), eggs, and dairy (butter, milk). Candied fruits may contain traces of nuts or sulfites check labels if concerned.
Nutritional Information
Calories 340 Total Fat 9 g Carbohydrates 56 g Protein 7 g per serving
Save to Pinterest 
This sweet bread is a delightful blend of texture and flavor that brings joy to any celebration.
Answers to Recipe Questions
- → What gives the dough its aromatic flavor?
The dough is flavored with orange zest and vanilla extract, adding a subtle citrus and warm vanilla aroma.
- → How is the shiny finish achieved on the bread?
The crown is brushed with apricot jam while still warm, giving it a glossy, appetizing sheen.
- → Can I substitute the candied fruits decorating the crown?
Yes, you can use any combination of candied fruits or add slivered almonds for added texture.
- → What is the purpose of the two rising phases?
Two rising periods ensure the dough doubles in size for a light, airy texture and help develop flavor and structure.
- → Is there a traditional element hidden inside the bread?
Traditionally, a small figurine (fève) is hidden within the dough before baking to surprise those who find it.
