Merry Christmas, dear recipe - Rosenkrantz Christmas Tree

Rosenkrantz Tree – A Christmas Delight

Merry Christmas, dear food lovers! I invite you into the magical world of the holidays, where enticing aromas and the joy of spending time with loved ones intertwine. Today, we will prepare a classic yet charming recipe together: the Rosenkrantz Tree. This dessert is not only a delight for the taste buds but also a symbol of festivities, bringing a touch of magic to every home.

The History of the Rosenkrantz Tree

The Rosenkrantz Tree has its roots in ancient traditions when people gathered around the table not only to enjoy delicious dishes but also to create memories. This dessert brings together simple yet flavorful ingredients such as nuts, cinnamon, and orange zest, evoking the warm and welcoming atmosphere of the holidays. Each bite is an invitation to share unforgettable moments with loved ones.

Preparation Time and Servings

- Preparation time: 30 minutes
- Baking time: 30 minutes
- Total time: 1 hour
- Number of servings: 12 servings

Ingredients

*For the dough:*
- 400 g flour
- 2 eggs
- 110 ml milk
- 25 g fresh yeast
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- Grated zest of one orange

*For the filling:*
- 50 g melted butter
- 1 tablespoon Kotanyi cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg Kotanyi
- 6 tablespoons sugar (or more, to taste)
- Ground nuts (optional)

*For decoration:*
- Whole nuts and colored candies

Step by Step: How to Prepare the Rosenkrantz Tree

1. Activating the yeast

Start by activating the yeast. In a small bowl, add 110 ml of lukewarm milk. Sprinkle 3 tablespoons of sugar and the yeast cube. Let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes until a light foam forms on the surface. This is the sign that the yeast is alive and ready to work its magic.

2. Preparing the dough

Take a large bowl and add the 400 g of flour. Make a well in the center of the flour and add the beaten eggs, grated orange zest, and the activated yeast mixture. Use a spatula or your hands to combine the ingredients until you achieve a smooth dough.

3. Kneading the dough

Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes. The dough should be elastic and smooth. Don’t worry if it seems sticky at first; add a little more flour if necessary.

4. Shaping and filling the dough

After kneading the dough, there’s no need to let it rise. Roll it out on the work surface into a rectangle about 1 cm thick. Brush the surface of the dough with melted butter and evenly sprinkle the sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg mixture.

Add the ground nuts if you want an extra texture and flavor. Roll the dough tightly into a log. Cut the log into pieces about 3 cm long, but feel free to adjust the size according to your preferences.

5. Preparing for baking

In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of sugar with 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. Dip each piece of dough into this mixture, ensuring it is well coated, then place them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Let them sit aside for about 30 minutes until they double in size.

6. Baking

Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Once the dough is ready, place the tray in the oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the tree turns golden and fluffy. The aromas will fill the house, bringing a sense of warmth and celebration.

7. Decorating

After the tree is baked, let it cool slightly, then decorate it with whole nuts and colored candies for a festive look. This step is not only aesthetic but also a way to add a personal and creative touch.

Practical Tips for a Perfect Result

- Make sure the milk is lukewarm, not hot, to activate the yeast without destroying it.
- You can experiment with other flavors, such as vanilla or cardamom, to give your tree an interesting twist.
- If you want a healthier version, you can substitute sugar with honey or maple syrup.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use dry yeast instead of fresh yeast?
Of course! Use about 7 g of dry yeast. The activation is done in the same way, but it will take a little longer for the dough to rise.

2. How can I store the Rosenkrantz Tree?
You can keep the tree in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it.

3. What can I serve with the Rosenkrantz Tree?
This dessert is delicious alongside a cup of hot tea or flavored coffee. You can also add a spoonful of cream cheese for a gourmet experience.

Nutritional Benefits

The Rosenkrantz Tree is a source of carbohydrates from the flour, providing quick energy. The nuts add healthy proteins and beneficial fats for the heart, while cinnamon is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. The orange zest brings vitamin C, essential for a strong immune system.

Conclusion

Dear friends, I hope you enjoyed this Rosenkrantz Tree recipe and that you will try to prepare it during this special time of year. Each bite is an invitation to savor beautiful moments with family and friends. I wish you Happy Holidays, filled with love, joy, and, of course, many culinary delights!