Traditional Cozonac cu Nucă: Walnut-and-Cocoa Swirled Holiday Bread

One clear instruction at a time, with the full ingredient list and tips nearby.

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Proof the yeast in the 1 cup warm milk with 1 tablespoon of the sugar. Mix flour, salt and lemon zest; add the yeast mixture, egg yolks and whole eggs from the 3 eggs, vanilla and remaining dough sugar.

Ingredients quick view

4 cups all-purpose flour

1 cup milk

3/4 cup sugar, divided

1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)

3 large eggs

1 packet active dry yeast

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 1/2 cups ground walnuts

3 tablespoons cocoa powder

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

2 egg whites

1/3 cup warm milk, for the filling

zest of 1 lemon

Tips quick view

Ensure the milk is warm, not hot, to properly activate the yeast.

Kneading the dough well will result in a lighter texture.

Let the cozonac cool completely before slicing for easier cutting.

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