Vegan Traditional Swiss Zopf Bread
Discover the delightful charm of homemade Vegan Traditional Swiss Zopf Bread—a plant-based twist on Switzerland’s beloved braided loaf. This recipe retains all the signature characteristics of the classic Zopf, including its soft, fluffy crumb and intricately braided design, while being entirely egg- and dairy-free. Made with simple ingredients like all-purpose flour, plant-based milk, and vegan butter, this bread gains its golden, glossy finish from a clever aquafaba glaze. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a show-stopping centerpiece for any table, this Zopf pairs beautifully with sweet spreads, savory toppings, or simply on its own. Whether you're impressing guests or indulging in a satisfying home-baked treat, this vegan bread is a must-try for anyone craving traditional Swiss flavors with a modern, compassionate twist.
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Ingredients
- 500 grams All-purpose flour
- 200 milliliters Plant-based milk (e.g., almond, soy, or oat)
- 60 grams Vegan butter (softened)
- 20 grams Sugar
- 7 grams Instant yeast
- 10 grams Salt
- 2 tablespoons Aquafaba (chickpea brine) for brushing
Directions
Step 1
In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, warm the plant-based milk until lukewarm (about 37–40°C or 98–104°F). Be careful not to overheat it, as that can kill the yeast.
Step 2
In a large mixing bowl, combine the lukewarm milk, sugar, and instant yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy, indicating the yeast is activated.
Step 3
Add the softened vegan butter and salt to the yeast mixture, mixing well to combine.
Step 4
Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the wet ingredients, mixing with a wooden spoon or using a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment, until a shaggy dough forms.
Step 5
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it by hand for 8–10 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. Alternatively, knead the dough in a stand mixer for 5–7 minutes.
Step 6
Place the dough back into the mixing bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm, draft-free area for 1–1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.
Step 7
Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air. Transfer it to a clean, lightly floured surface.
Step 8
Divide the dough into three equal portions and roll each into long ropes, about 40 cm (16 inches) in length.
Step 9
Braid the three ropes together to form the traditional Zopf shape. Pinch the ends together to secure and tuck them under the loaf for a clean finish.
Step 10
Place the braided loaf onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and cover it loosely with a kitchen towel. Allow it to rise again for 30–40 minutes, or until it's slightly puffy.
Step 11
Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F). Just before baking, brush the loaf with aquafaba to achieve a golden, glossy finish.
Step 12
Bake the bread on the center rack for 25–30 minutes, or until it is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Step 13
Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing. Enjoy your vegan Swiss Zopf bread!
Nutrition Facts
| Serving size | (829.9g) |
|---|
| Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|
| Calories | 2406.5 |
| Total Fat 54.5g | 0% |
| Saturated Fat 13.8g | 0% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat 0g | |
| Cholesterol 0mg | 0% |
| Sodium 4516.1mg | 0% |
| Total Carbohydrate 412.2g | 0% |
| Dietary Fiber 16.4g | 0% |
| Total Sugars 26.3g | |
| Protein 56.7g | 0% |
| Vitamin D 84.5IU | 0% |
| Calcium 328.8mg | 0% |
| Iron 24.2mg | 0% |
| Potassium 889.0mg | 0% |
Source of Calories