Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsCafeneoTsoureki- Loaf Recipe

Tsoureki- Loaf Recipe

Inspired by Cafeneo
Time2h 30m
Serves12

Soft, braided sweet bread topped with sliced almonds.

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Ingredients

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Dough Ingredients

Topping Ingredients

Method

Dough Preparation

  1. 1

    Activate Yeast

    In a small bowl, combine warm milk and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.

  2. 2

    Mix Dry Ingredients

    In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.

  3. 3

    Combine Ingredients

    Make a well in the center of the flour mixture and add the activated yeast mixture, eggs, melted butter, orange zest, and vanilla extract. Stir until a dough forms.

  4. 4

    Knead the Dough

    Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

  5. 5

    First Rise

    Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.

Shaping and Baking

  1. 6

    Shape the Dough

    Once the dough has risen, punch it down and turn it out onto a floured surface. Divide it into three equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope, about 12 inches long, and braid them together.

  2. 7

    Second Rise

    Transfer the braided loaf to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover with a cloth and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes.

  3. 8

    Preheat Oven

    Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

  4. 9

    Egg Wash and Top with Almonds

    Once the dough has risen, beat the egg with a tablespoon of water to make an egg wash. Brush the loaf with the egg wash and sprinkle the sliced almonds over the top.

  5. 10

    Bake the Bread

    Bake the loaf in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. Let cool on a wire rack before slicing.

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