Vegan raisin cake

Raisin Easter Bread – a traditional recipe, full of flavor and aroma, that brings joy to any home. In this article, I will guide you step by step in preparing this delight, providing you with useful information, practical tips, and serving suggestions to achieve the best possible result.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Rising time: 1 hour + 15 minutes
Baking time: 30-35 minutes
Number of servings: 2 loaves

Necessary ingredients:

- 500 g flour
- 280 ml mineral water (warm)
- 1 packet of dry yeast (approximately 7 g)
- 130 g sugar
- 5 tablespoons oil (sunflower or olive)
- 1 tablespoon coconut (for an exotic taste)
- Grated zest of 1 orange (for flavor)
- 2 teaspoons powdered sugar with vanilla bean
- 150 g raisins (preferably high quality)
- 2 teaspoons rum essence
- 2 pieces of Turkish delight (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds (for decoration)

A bit of history:
The Easter bread is a traditional dessert, a symbol of holidays and joyful moments, often prepared in families for Christmas or Easter. This vegan version, with raisins and coconut, preserves the tradition but makes it accessible to everyone, regardless of diet.

Step by step:

1. Preparing the ingredients:
Start by sifting the flour into a large bowl. This step is essential to avoid lumps and to achieve a fine dough. Add the sugar, powdered sugar with vanilla bean, dry yeast, and coconut. Mix well with a silicone spatula to homogenize the dry ingredients.

2. Activating the yeast:
In a small pot, warm the mineral water until it is lukewarm but not hot. Water that is too hot can kill the yeast. Gradually pour the warm water over the dry ingredient mixture, stirring continuously.

3. Flavoring the dough:
Add the grated orange zest and knead the dough. You will obtain an elastic but slightly sticky dough. Finally, incorporate the oil, which will add extra tenderness to the bread.

4. Rising the dough:
Sprinkle a little flour on the bottom of the bowl, place the dough in, and cover it with a clean towel. Let it rise in a warm place for about an hour or until it doubles in volume.

5. Preparing the raisins:
In another pot, bring water to a boil. Once boiling, remove the pot from heat, add the rum essence and raisins. Let them sit for 10-15 minutes until they swell. Drain the raisins well before using them.

6. Shaping the loaves:
After the dough has risen, divide it into two equal parts. Roll out the first piece of dough into a rectangular sheet. Sprinkle raisins and, if desired, a few pieces of Turkish delight. Carefully roll the dough into a log. Repeat with the second piece of dough.

7. Placing in the pan:
Line two loaf pans with parchment paper. Place the loaves in the pans and let them rise for another 15 minutes.

8. Preparing the syrup:
In a small saucepan, combine a little water with powdered sugar and a drop of vanilla essence. Heat the mixture and let it simmer briefly, then set it aside to cool slightly.

9. Baking:
Preheat the oven to medium temperature (about 180°C). Brush the loaves with the prepared syrup and sprinkle poppy seeds on top for an attractive look. Place the pans in the oven and bake the loaves for 30-35 minutes until golden and brown on top.

10. Finishing:
Once the loaves are ready, take them out of the oven and brush them again with the remaining syrup. Cover them hot with a clean towel to keep them soft.

Serving suggestions:
The raisin Easter bread is delicious served warm, alongside a cup of fragrant tea or coffee. You can also pair it with fruit jam or nut cream for an even greater indulgence.

Nutritional benefits:
This bread is a good source of carbohydrates, providing energy. The raisins add fiber and antioxidants, while the coconut contributes healthy fats. It is a lighter and healthier option, perfect for fasting days or for those looking to avoid dairy products.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes, but make sure to adjust the amount of water, as whole wheat flour absorbs more moisture.

2. What else can I add to the bread?
You can experiment with various nuts, dark chocolate, or candied fruits to achieve your preferred flavors.

3. What should I do if the dough doesn't rise?
Check if the yeast is fresh and ensure that the dough is rising in a warm, humid place.

4. How do I store the bread?
I recommend keeping it covered in a metal box or a clean towel to prevent it from drying out.

Now you are ready to surprise your family and friends with this raisin Easter bread! Don't forget to share your impressions and enjoy every bite! Bon appétit!