Mariana's Sweet Bread

Mariana's Cozonac - A Traditional Delicacy with a Homey Aroma

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 60 minutes
Total time: 90 minutes
Servings: 12

If you want to bring a touch of magic to your kitchen, Mariana's Cozonac recipe is the perfect choice. This fluffy cozonac, filled with various delights, will transform any meal into a celebration. Whether you're preparing it for the holidays or simply as a quick dessert, this simple recipe will surely become your favorite.

Ingredients for the dough:
- 500 g all-purpose flour (for a fluffy cozonac, use high-quality flour)
- 200 ml lukewarm milk
- 100 g sugar
- 3 large eggs (at room temperature)
- 50 g butter
- 50 ml oil
- 25 g fresh yeast
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Grated zest of one lemon (for an extra flavor)

Ingredients for the filling:
- 200 g ground walnuts (or hazelnuts, according to preference)
- 150 g sugar
- 100 g raisins (optional, for a sweet-sour taste)
- 1 teaspoon cocoa powder (for an intense flavor)
- 1 teaspoon rum essence (or vanilla, for a surprising aroma)

Step 1: Preparing the dough
Start by melting the butter over low heat, stirring constantly to prevent burning. When the butter turns golden, remove it from heat and let it cool slightly. Now, heat the milk until it is lukewarm, then add the yeast and sugar. Stir gently until the yeast is completely dissolved.

Step 2: Mixing the ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and lemon zest. Make a well in the center and add the beaten eggs, oil, and the milk-yeast mixture. Pour in the melted butter and mix with a spatula or your hands until you have a smooth dough. Knead the dough for 10-15 minutes until it becomes elastic and no longer sticks to your hands.

Step 3: Proofing the dough
Place the dough in a bowl greased with a little oil, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.

Step 4: Preparing the filling
Meanwhile, prepare the filling. In a bowl, mix the ground nuts, sugar, cocoa, and raisins. Add the rum essence and mix well so that all ingredients combine evenly.

Step 5: Shaping the cozonac
After the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release the air. Divide the dough into two equal parts. Roll each piece into a rectangle on a floured surface. Evenly sprinkle the filling over each rectangle and roll tightly, forming a log.

Step 6: Baking
Place the two logs in a loaf pan lined with parchment paper, leaving a little space between them to rise. Let them proof again for 30 minutes. Preheat the oven to 180°C. Bake the cozonac for 50-60 minutes or until golden and it sounds hollow when you tap it lightly on the bottom.

Step 7: Serving
Once the cozonac has cooled, you can dust it with powdered sugar for an elegant look. Serve it alongside a cup of tea or coffee, or why not, with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious contrast.

Suggestions and variations:
You can experiment with various fillings: chocolate, fruit jam, or even a combination of candied fruits. Also, add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for an even richer aroma.

Mariana's Cozonac is more than just a dessert; it is a recipe that brings family and friends together. Enjoy every slice and cherish the moments spent around the table!