Indulge in the delightful flavors of Kalacs, a traditional Hungarian cinnamon swirl bread that will surely impress your friends and family. This delicious treat combines the warmth of cinnamon with a soft, pillowy dough, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it with a cup of coffee or serve it at a family gathering, Kalacs is a must-try recipe that captures the essence of comfort baking.
Kalacs (Hungarian Cinnamon Swirl Bread)
This is not just any bread; the Kalacs is a beloved pastry that fills your home with irresistible aromas while it bakes. Let’s dive into making this scrumptious bread that is perfect for breakfast or as a sweet snack!
Ingredients:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 cup milk, warmed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the warmed milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- Add the melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract to the yeast mixture, stirring until well combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 7–10 minutes until it is smooth and elastic. Place it in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm area for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.
- Once risen, punch the dough down and roll it out into a rectangle, approximately 1/2 inch thick.
- In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and cinnamon. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the dough.
- Roll the dough tightly into a log, starting from one long side. Pinch the seams to seal.
- Place the rolled dough into a greased loaf pan and cover. Let it rise again for about 30 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the bread for about 35–40 minutes or until golden brown and it sounds hollow when tapped.
- Allow the bread to cool for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Dust with powdered sugar if desired.
Enjoy slices of this beautiful Kalacs warm from the oven or at room temperature. It also makes a wonderful gift for loved ones. Happy baking!