Elevate your bread-making game with this Heart-Healthy Traditional Swiss Zopf Bread, a modern twist on the classic Swiss artisan loaf. Made with a hearty blend of whole wheat and all-purpose flours, this plaited bread is packed with wholesome ingredients like olive oil, maple syrup, and ground flaxseeds, which serve as a nutrient-rich egg substitute. The use of unsweetened almond milk ensures it's dairy-free and perfect for plant-based diets, while optional toppings like sesame or poppy seeds add a delightful crunch. With its soft, fluffy texture and signature braid, this loaf is not only visually stunning but also easy on the heart. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven with a drizzle of olive oil or paired with your favorite spread, this bread is an irresistible addition to any meal. Follow this step-by-step guide to create a loaf that's as nourishing as it is delicious.
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Prepare the flaxseed mixture by combining ground flaxseeds and water in a small bowl. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it thickens and forms a gel-like consistency. This will serve as an egg substitute.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, instant yeast, and salt. Mix well.
Heat the almond milk until lukewarm (no more than 40°C/104°F). Add the maple syrup and olive oil to the almond milk and mix well.
Pour the flaxseed mixture and the almond milk mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir until the dough starts to come together.
Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes, or until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 5-6 minutes.
Place the kneaded dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
Once risen, punch down the dough and divide it into three equal portions. Roll each portion into a long rope, about 30-40 cm in length.
Braid the three ropes together to form the traditional Zopf shape. Pinch the ends to seal and tuck them underneath for a neat finish.
Place the braided loaf on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover with a kitchen towel and let it rise again for about 30 minutes.
Preheat the oven to 180°C (356°F). If desired, brush the loaf lightly with almond milk and sprinkle sesame or poppy seeds on top.
Bake the Zopf in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped on the bottom.
Remove from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.
Serving size | (896.7g) |
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Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
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Calories | 2290.4 |
Total Fat 50.2g | 0% |
Saturated Fat 7.0g | 0% |
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.7g | |
Cholesterol 0mg | 0% |
Sodium 2962.9mg | 0% |
Total Carbohydrate 407.3g | 0% |
Dietary Fiber 50.2g | 0% |
Total Sugars 28.7g | |
Protein 69.3g | 0% |
Vitamin D 105.7IU | 0% |
Calcium 747.3mg | 0% |
Iron 24.4mg | 0% |
Potassium 1844.6mg | 0% |
Source of Calories