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Croatian Povitica (Povetica)
A buttery, swirled sweet bread filled with spiced walnuts—popular in Croatia and among Croatian communities. Perfect with coffee or as a holiday treat!
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 500g (4 cups) all-purpose flour
- 50g (¼ cup) granulated sugar
- 7g (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 120ml (½ cup) warm milk (~110°F/43°C)
- 2 large eggs, room temp
- 60g (¼ cup) unsalted butter, melted
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Walnut Filling:
- 300g (3 cups) ground walnuts
- 120ml (½ cup) whole milk
- 100g (½ cup) brown sugar
- 60g (¼ cup) unsalted butter
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp rum or brandy (optional)
For Topping:
- 1 egg yolk + 1 tbsp milk (for egg wash)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Dough
- Activate yeast: In a small bowl, mix warm milk, 1 tsp sugar, and yeast. Let sit 5–10 mins until foamy.
- Make dough: In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, and salt. Add yeast mixture, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla. Knead 8–10 mins until smooth (by hand or mixer).
- First rise: Cover with a towel and let rise 1–1.5 hours, until doubled.
2. Make the Filling
- In a saucepan, heat milk, butter, and brown sugar until melted.
- Stir in ground walnuts, cinnamon, vanilla, and rum (if using). Cook 2–3 mins until thickened. Let cool.
3. Assemble & Roll
- Roll dough: On a floured surface, roll the dough into a large rectangle (~20×30 inches).
- Spread filling: Evenly distribute the walnut mixture, leaving a 1-inch border.
- Roll tightly: Starting from the long side, roll into a log (like a jelly roll).
4. Shape & Second Rise
- Coil the log into a spiral or “S” shape in a greased 9×13-inch pan or round baking dish.
- Cover and let rise 30–45 mins until puffy.
5. Bake
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Brush with egg wash.
- Bake 30–40 mins until golden brown.
- Cool before slicing.
Tips & Variations
- Alternative nuts: Use pecans or hazelnuts instead of walnuts.
- Make ahead: Refrigerate shaped dough overnight; bake the next day.
- Serving: Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with honey.
This rich, swirled bread is a Croatian treasure—enjoy with tea or as a dessert! 🇭🇷☕
