Traditional German Hefezopf Recipe

Ingredients

  • 500 grams of all-purpose flour
  • 70 grams of granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon of salt
  • 20 grams of fresh yeast
  • 250 milliliters of warm milk
  • 75 grams of softened unsalted butter
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 egg yolk
  • 2 tablespoons of heavy cream
  • Almond flakes for sprinkling

Steps and instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, sugar, and salt.
  2. In a separate bowl, dissolve the yeast in the warm milk.
  3. Make a well in the center of the flour mixture. Pour the yeast mixture, the softened butter, and the egg into the well. Mix until a dough forms.
  4. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface until it becomes smooth and elastic, about 10 minutes.
  5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place until it doubles in size, about 1-2 hours.
  6. Once the dough has risen, divide it into three equal parts. Roll each part into a rope about 40 cm long.
  7. Braid the three strands together, making sure to pinch the ends together and tuck them under the loaf to secure them.
  8. Place the braided loaf on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Let it rise again for about 30 minutes.
  9. Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius (350 degrees Fahrenheit).
  10. Beat the egg yolk and heavy cream together to make the egg wash. Brush this over the loaf.
  11. Sprinkle the almond flakes on top of the loaf.
  12. Bake for 25 – 30 minutes, or until the loaf is golden brown.
  13. Allow the loaf to cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.

Tools for making

Recipe variations

  • Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option.
  • Add raisins or chopped nuts to the dough for added texture and flavor.
  • Sprinkle cinnamon and sugar on top of the loaf before baking for a sweet and aromatic twist.
  • Replace the almond flakes with sesame seeds or poppy seeds for a different topping.
  • Make a savory version by omitting the sugar and adding grated cheese, herbs, or spices to the dough.
  • For a vegan option, use plant-based milk, such as almond milk or soy milk, and replace the butter with vegan margarine or coconut oil.
  • Add dried fruits like cranberries, apricots, or dates to the dough for a fruity variation.
  • Make a chocolate Hefezopf by adding cocoa powder and chocolate chunks to the dough.
  • For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.
  • Experiment with different fillings, such as Nutella, jam, or cream cheese, by spreading it on the dough before braiding.

Recipe overview

Hefezopf is a classic German bread often enjoyed during breakfast or tea time. This delicious treat is characterized by its braided look and sweet, soft interior, lightly sprinkled with almond flakes. Baking Hefezopf involves creating a rich, yeasted dough, which is allowed to rise before being divided and braided. After another rise, the loaf is brushed with an egg wash for a lovely sheen, sprinkled with almond flakes, and then baked to golden perfection. The result is a beautifully braided, sweet bread that is delightfully soft and fluffy on the inside and golden and slightly crunchy on the outside. This recipe will guide you through the process of making this delightful bread from scratch, step by step.

Common questions

  1. How long does it take for the dough to rise? The dough will need to rise for about 1-2 hours, or until it doubles in size.
  2. Can I use instant yeast instead of fresh yeast? Yes, you can substitute 7 grams of instant yeast for the 20 grams of fresh yeast in this recipe. Just make sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for using instant yeast.
  3. Can I use bread flour instead of all-purpose flour? Yes, you can use bread flour instead of all-purpose flour. The texture may be slightly different, but it will still work well.
  4. Can I use a stand mixer to knead the dough? Yes, you can use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment to knead the dough. Knead it on low to medium speed for about 5-7 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic.
  5. Can I add raisins or other dried fruits to the dough? Yes, you can add raisins or other dried fruits to the dough if you like. Simply mix them into the dough during the kneading process.
  6. Can I freeze the baked Hefezopf? Yes, you can freeze the baked Hefezopf. Make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container before freezing. Thaw it at room temperature before serving.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Mixing bowl - A large bowl for mixing the ingredients and kneading the dough.
  • Measuring cups and spoons - To accurately measure the ingredients.
  • Baking sheet - A flat sheet pan for placing the braided loaf during baking.
  • Parchment paper - To line the baking sheet and prevent the dough from sticking.
  • Kitchen towel - To cover the dough while it rises.
  • Wire rack - For cooling the baked Hefezopf and allowing air to circulate.
  • Pastry brush - To brush the egg wash onto the loaf before baking.

Origin stories

Hefezopf holds a special place in the heart of German cuisine, not only for its delightful taste but also for its cultural significance. The plaited bread, whose name literally translates to "yeast braid," has fascinating roots in history. Traditionally, it was presented as a gift to godparents from their godchildren during Easter. The intricate braiding, often seen as a symbol of love and care, was believed to bring good fortune and protection to the recipient's household. The bread's golden crust, achieved by an egg wash before baking, symbolizes prosperity and abundance. Today, Hefezopf is enjoyed year-round in Germany, often served for breakfast or afternoon tea, and continues to be a cherished link to past traditions and celebrations.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.