Glossary
Vánočka - a symbol of Czech Christmas

Vánočka - a symbol of Czech Christmas

Vánočka is a traditional Czech festive yeast bread that is an essential part of Czech Christmas. It is made from rich dough containing flour, eggs, butter, milk, sugar, and raisins. It is traditionally braided in three tiers: the bottom from four strands, the middle from three, and the top from two. Before baking, it is brushed with egg for a golden crust. Vánočka has a delicate, buttery taste and a soft texture. It is served sliced with butter, jam, or honey for Christmas Eve breakfast.

Vánočka is traditionally braided from nine strands of dough in three tiers of four, three, and two.
The braiding symbolism references baby Jesus'so swaddling clothes or three wise men bearing gifts.
The dough should rise in a warm place at least twice for the best result.
In some Czech regions, vánočka is called štědrovka or ščedrovka.

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