How to Make Božićni Kruh: Croatia's Traditional Christmas Bread

Božićni kruh, or Christmas bread, is a beloved part of Croatian holiday traditions. This sweet, enriched loaf is typically baked on Christmas Eve or Christmas morning and shared with family and guests throughout the festive season. Rich with dried fruit, nuts and a hint of lemon, it sits somewhere between a bread and a cake, and its braided or round shape often symbolises unity and prosperity. Making it at home is a wonderful way to connect with Croatian culture and fill the house with the warm aromas of the holidays.

Ingredients

• 500 g plain flour
• 7 g dried yeast
• 100 g caster sugar
• 150 ml warm milk
• 2 eggs, at room temperature
• 100 g butter, melted and cooled
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 100 g raisins
• 50 g chopped almonds
• 50 g chopped walnuts
• Pinch of salt
• 1 egg yolk, for glazing
• Icing sugar, for dusting

Method

1. In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast and a teaspoon of the sugar in the warm milk. Leave for 10 minutes until frothy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, remaining sugar and salt. Make a well in the centre.
3. Add the yeast mixture, eggs, melted butter, vanilla and lemon zest. Mix until a rough dough forms.
4. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
5. Knead in the raisins, almonds and walnuts, distributing them evenly.
6. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean tea towel, and leave to rise in a warm place for about 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
7. Punch down the dough and shape it into a round loaf or divide into three strands and braid. Place on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
8. Cover and leave to rise again for 45 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 180°C.
9. Brush the top of the loaf with beaten egg yolk. Bake for 30–35 minutes, until golden brown and sounding hollow when tapped underneath.
10. Cool on a wire rack, then dust generously with icing sugar before serving.

Serving and Storage

Božićni kruh is best enjoyed on the day it is baked, but it keeps well for up to three days in an airtight container. Many families serve it alongside a morning coffee or hot chocolate, or as part of a festive breakfast spread. In some regions, a coin is hidden inside the dough before baking, and whoever finds it in their slice is said to have good luck for the coming year. However you choose to enjoy it, this aromatic bread is sure to become a cherished part of your own holiday traditions.