Tsoureki Easter Bread (Explore)

"Tsoureki (τσουρέκι) is a Greek brioche like sweet bread flavored with orange and a spice that is ground from the pits of wild cherries called Mahlab (or Mahlepi). The sweet loaf is commonly served for major holidays including Easter in Greece to break the Lenten fast." ~Tomitheos

 

Preparation Time: 3 hours

Cook Time: 1 hour

Yield: 4 braided loaves

Ingredients:

8 cups all purpose flour

1/2 tsp. salt

1 1/2 cups milk, warmed

3 envelopes dry yeast

1 2/3 cup unsalted butter (or 3 sticks and approx. 3 tbsp.)

1 2/3 cup sugar

zest of one orange

zest of one lemon

1 tbsp. Mahlab (Mahlepi)

5 eggs (lightly beaten)

*** sprinkle whole sesame seeds on the top.

 

Copyright © 2012 - 2015 Tomitheos Food Photography - All Rights Reserved

 

Explore # 340 on April 13, 2012

 

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