Recipe of Cozonac

Join me and let's see how to make Cozonac

Instructions:

Step 1
• n a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm milk. Let it sit for about 10 minutes until frothy.
Step 2
• In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, lemon zest, melted butter, eggs, and the yeast mixture. Mix well.
Step 3
• Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10-15 minutes until it's smooth and elastic. Place it back in the bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and let it rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Step 4
• While the dough is rising, prepare the filling. In a saucepan, mix together ground walnuts, cocoa powder, sugar, milk, and butter. Cook over low heat, stirring until it thickens. Remove from heat, add raisins and vanilla, and let it cool.
Step 5
• Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
Step 6
• Once the dough has doubled in size, divide it into two equal portions. Roll out each portion into a rectangle.
Step 7
• Spread half of the filling evenly on each rectangle.
Step 8
• Roll up each rectangle lengthwise, forming a log. Place them side by side.
Step 9
• Carefully twist the two logs together to create a braided look.
Step 10
• Transfer the cozonac to a greased and floured baking pan. Let it rest for about 10 minutes.
Step 11
• Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes or until golden brown.
Step 12
• While the cozonac is baking, prepare the glaze by mixing powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract.
Step 13
• Once the cozonac is done baking, remove it from the oven and drizzle the glaze over it while it's still warm.
Step 14
• Allow the cozonac to cool before slicing and serving. Enjoy your homemade Romanian Cozonac!