Strietzel
Strietzel is a traditional yeast-based sweet bread infused with lemon zest, raisins, and a hint of sweetness, perfect for breakfast or sharing at celebrations.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat water and milk to 130°F.
- Mix yeast, salt, sugar, oil, egg, and half of the flour in a bowl.
- Drizzle the heated liquids into the bowl, mixing with a beater until smooth.
- Stir in lemon rind, lemon juice, and raisins.
- Stir or knead in remaining flour until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- Let the dough rise until doubled in size.
- Knead and shape the dough into loaves, either round or braided.
- Let the shaped loaves rise until doubled.
- Brush the loaves with 1 beaten egg.
- Bake at 350°F for 20 to 25 minutes, depending on the size of the loaves.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting some of the white raisins with chopped dried apricots or cranberries. If you want a lighter version, use almond or soy milk instead of regular milk. Make sure the water and milk mixture is not too hot, as it can kill the yeast. Also, knead the dough well to develop gluten for a better texture.
Serving Suggestions
Strietzel is delightful on its own or served with butter and jam for breakfast. It also pairs beautifully with cheese, making it a great accompaniment to a cheese platter. For a festive touch, serve alongside a dessert like Dietetic Applesauce Raisin Cake. A warm cup of tea or coffee complements it perfectly as well.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Strietzel in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to a month. To reheat, wrap the bread in aluminum foil and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Strietzel contains roughly 632 calories, with 14g protein, 101g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (37% of the Daily Value), protein (29% of the Daily Value), and calcium (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1210mg per serving (53% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes, you can use instant yeast. Simply add it directly to the dry ingredients without proofing. However, the dough may rise slightly faster, so keep an eye on it during the rising stages.
How do I know when the dough has risen enough?
The dough is ready when it has doubled in size and feels light and airy. You can gently poke it with your finger; if the indentation remains, it’s ready for the next step. Be careful not to over-proof, as it can affect the texture.
What can I add to enhance the flavor of Strietzel?
You can incorporate spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for added warmth. Additionally, adding a tablespoon of vanilla extract or a splash of rum can elevate the flavor profile. Consider also incorporating citrus zest for a fresh twist.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).