Gluten-Free Houska (Czech Braided Bread)

Discover the timeless charm of Czech baking with this **Gluten-Free Houska (Czech Braided Bread)**, a delightful twist on a beloved traditional treat. This beautifully braided bread combines the rich flavors of vanilla, warm lemon zest, and plump raisins, all folded into a tender yet sturdy gluten-free dough that’s perfect for special occasions or everyday enjoyment. Made with a blend of gluten-free flour and xanthan gum, this recipe ensures a soft, cohesive texture while remaining completely gluten-free. With simple steps for creating the braid and a golden egg wash finish, this bread emerges from the oven as a show-stopping centerpiece. Ideal for brunches, holiday feasts, or as a slightly sweet breakfast bread, Gluten-Free Houska pairs perfectly with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey.

Nutriscore Rating: 60/100

Prep Time:30 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:55 mins

Servings: 12

Ingredients

• 500 grams Gluten-free all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons Xanthan gum
• 50 grams Sugar
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 2.5 teaspoons Instant yeast
• 60 grams Unsalted butter, melted
• 250 milliliters Milk, warm
• 2 pieces Large eggs, beaten
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon Lemon zest
• 100 grams Raisins
• 1 piece Egg yolk
• 1 tablespoon Water

Directions

Step 1

In a large bowl, combine the gluten-free all-purpose flour, xanthan gum, sugar, salt, and instant yeast. Mix well.

Step 2

In a separate bowl, combine the melted butter, warm milk, beaten eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir in the lemon zest.

Step 3

Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until a dough forms. It will be sticky but should hold together well.

Step 4

Mix in the raisins, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 5

Cover the bowl with a clean cloth and allow the dough to rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.

Step 6

Once risen, punch down the dough gently and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface.

Step 7

Divide the dough into three equal portions and roll each into a long rope, approximately 40 cm in length.

Step 8

Pinch the ends of the three ropes together and braid them, pinching together at the other end to secure the braid.

Step 9

Transfer the braided dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 10

Cover again and let rise for another 30 minutes until slightly puffy.

Step 11

Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).

Step 12

In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolk and water for the egg wash.

Step 13

Brush the braided dough with the egg wash, covering the entire surface for a beautiful golden sheen.

Step 14

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.

Step 15

Allow the bread to cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1128.6g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	3142.4

Total Fat 75.2g	0%
Saturated Fat 39.7g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.1g
Cholesterol 708.6mg	0%
Sodium 2724.9mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 594.2g	0%
Dietary Fiber 23.7g	0%
Total Sugars 130.5g
Protein 42.8g	0%

Vitamin D 229.2IU	0%
Calcium 545.2mg	0%
Iron 7.7mg	0%
Potassium 1416.7mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 21.0%

Protein: 5.3%

Carbs: 73.7%