Pisanica Stubica - Croatian Easter Bread

Ingredients

• 500g (4 cups) all-purpose flour 500g (4 cups) all-purpose flour
• 7g (2 ¼ tsp) instant yeast 7g (2 ¼ tsp) instant yeast
• 100g (½ cup) granulated sugar 100g (½ cup) granulated sugar
• 1 tsp salt 1 tsp salt
• 120ml (½ cup) warm milk 120ml (½ cup) warm milk
• 120ml (½ cup) warm water 120ml (½ cup) warm water
• 2 large eggs 2 large eggs
• 60g (¼ cup) unsalted butter, melted 60g (¼ cup) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tsp vanilla extract 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Zest of 1 orange Zest of 1 orange
• Colorful sprinkles, for decoration Colorful sprinkles, for decoration

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 280 kcal / 1172 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 6g, 3g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 50g, 15g
• Protein: 7g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.6g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, instant yeast, sugar, and salt.
2. 2.
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the warm milk, warm water, eggs, melted butter, vanilla extract, and orange zest.
3. 3.
   Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
4. 4.
   Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5-7 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
5. 5.
   Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. 6.
   Punch down the dough and divide it into three equal parts. Roll each part into a long rope.
7. 7.
   Braid the three ropes together, tucking the ends under to seal.
8. 8.
   Transfer the braided bread to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
9. 9.
   Cover the bread with a kitchen towel and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
10. 10.
    Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
11. 11.
    Brush the bread with beaten egg and sprinkle colorful sprinkles on top.
12. 12.
    Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
13. 13.
    Remove from the oven and let it cool completely before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Orange zest — Make sure to use organic oranges and wash them thoroughly before zesting to avoid any pesticide residue.
• Instant yeast — Ensure that the yeast is fresh and within its expiration date for optimal rising of the dough.
• Colorful sprinkles — Use high-quality sprinkles that won't bleed or melt during baking.

Tips & Tricks

• For a more pronounced citrus flavor, you can add a few drops of orange extract to the dough.
• If you prefer a sweeter bread, you can increase the amount of sugar to your liking.
• To achieve a shiny crust, brush the bread with a mixture of beaten egg and a teaspoon of milk before baking.
• Serve the Pisanica Stubica warm with butter or jam for a delightful breakfast treat.
• This bread can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Refresh it in the oven for a few minutes before serving.

Serving advice

Slice the Pisanica Stubica into thick slices and serve it as a centerpiece during Easter brunch or as a delightful addition to afternoon tea. It pairs wonderfully with butter, honey, or your favorite fruit preserves.

Presentation advice

To enhance the festive appearance of the Pisanica Stubica, place it on a decorative breadboard or a serving platter adorned with fresh flowers. Dust the bread with powdered sugar just before serving for an extra touch of elegance.