Preparing a Sweet Kougelhopf from Alsace is a delightful way to indulge in the flavors of this renowned region. This traditional Alsatian cake, made in a 10-inch Bundt pan, combines a light and fluffy dough with the sweetness of raisins and the delicate crunch of blanched almonds.
Serves 12, made in a 10-inch Bundt pan.
INGREDIENTS:
- 3/4 cup raisins
- 2 tablespoons dry yeast
- 1 cup warm milk
- 3 cups flour
- 1/3 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 2 eggs
- 10 tablespoons butter, softened
- 1/4 cup blanched almonds
- 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
INSTRUCTIONS:
- In a bowl, soak raisins in warm water (and rum, if desired).
- In another bowl, dilute yeast in 1/2 cup warm milk. Mix in 3 tablespoons flour to make a small dough. Cover and let it rise for about 30 minutes.
- In a larger bowl, mix remaining flour with sugar, salt, eggs, and remaining milk. Knead for 15 minutes until the dough is well-aerated. Incorporate softened butter.
- Add the risen yeast dough to the larger bowl and knead until the dough is uniform, smooth, and detaches from the bowl. Cover and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
- Punch down the dough and mix in the soaked raisins to distribute them evenly.
- Butter all the ridges and depressions of a 10-inch Bundt pan. Place one almond in the bottom of each section. Fill the pan with the dough, surrounding the chimney. Let it rise again, covered, for at least 1 hour.
- Preheat the oven to 400°F.
- When the dough has risen to the border of the pan, place it in the oven on the middle rack. Bake for 50-55 minutes. If the top darkens too fast, cover with parchment paper.
- Turn the mold upside down onto a cooling rack and carefully unmold the cake.
- Sprinkle the Sweet Kougelhopf with confectioners’ sugar using a sieve. Serve and enjoy!
By following these instructions, you’ll be able to create a delicious Sweet Kougelhopf from Alsace. The cake’s tender texture, the sweetness of the raisins, and the delightful almond topping will surely delight your taste buds.
Enjoy the combination of tender dough, plump raisins, and the subtle almond accents of this classic Sweet Kougelhopf from Alsace. It’s a perfect dessert to accompany a cup of coffee or tea, and it showcases the rich culinary traditions of the region. Delight in the flavors and aromas of Alsace with each bite of this delicious cake. Bon appétit!
