Not A Pie But Gold: A Rich, Yeast-Risen Old-World Dessert Recipe
A traditional yeast-risen dessert featuring a tender, spiced dough flavored with cardamom or cinnamon. This rich and fluffy treat is shaped by hand and baked until golden, offering old-world charm perfect for special occasions or cozy afternoons.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: European
Ingredients
Scale
Dough
- 2¼ tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast
- ¾ cup (180ml) warm milk (110°F/43°C)
- ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
- 3 cups (375g) all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp salt
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- ⅓ cup (75g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 tsp ground cardamom or cinnamon (optional)
Topping
- Powdered sugar or syrup (for topping)
Instructions
- Activate the yeast: In a large bowl, combine the warm milk, granulated sugar, and active dry yeast. Let this mixture sit for 5–10 minutes until it becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is active.
- Mix the dough: Add the eggs, salt, and all-purpose flour to the yeast mixture. Stir until the ingredients are just combined to form a rough dough.
- Knead the dough: Incorporate the softened butter and optional cardamom or cinnamon spice into the dough. Knead on a lightly floured surface or in the bowl for 8–10 minutes until the dough is smooth, elastic, and not sticky.
- First rise: Place the dough into a greased bowl. Cover it with a clean cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm area for 1 to 1½ hours, or until doubled in size.
- Shape the dough: Punch down the risen dough to release air. Shape it into your desired form such as a braid, ring, swirl, or small rolls. Place the shaped dough into a greased baking dish.
- Second rise: Cover the shaped dough and let it rise again for 30–45 minutes, until it is puffed and nearly doubled.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the dough for 25–30 minutes until the crust is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
- Finish and serve: Allow the baked dessert to cool slightly. Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with syrup before serving for added sweetness and presentation.
Notes
- Ensure milk is warmed to approximately 110°F (43°C) to avoid killing the yeast.
- Use room temperature eggs to help the dough rise better.
- Spices like cardamom or cinnamon add a traditional flavor but can be omitted or substituted based on preference.
- Kneading is key to a smooth and elastic dough; do not rush this step.
- The second rise is important for a light and airy final texture.
- Check for doneness by tapping on the crust; a hollow sound indicates it’s fully baked.
- Store leftover dessert in an airtight container and reheat gently to maintain softness.
Keywords: yeast dessert, cardamom bread, cinnamon treat, old-world recipe, baked sweet bread
