Walnut Cozonac

This traditional Romanian sweet bread is a festive favorite, featuring a rich filling of cocoa, rum extract, citrus zest, and raisins, all brought together with the deep, nutty flavor of International Collection™ Walnut Oil. Soft and fragrant, each slice reveals a beautiful swirl of chocolate and walnuts—making it as stunning to serve as it is delicious to enjoy.

Time 180 min

Servings 10-12

Difficulty 3

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Ingredients

Bread Dough

2 tablespoons International Collection™ Walnut Oil

1 cup warm whole milk (100°F)
2 teaspoons instant or active dry yeast
3 cups bread flour (all-purpose works as well)
1/3 cup granulated sugar
4 egg yolks
2 tablespoons sour cream
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
2 ounces unsalted butter, softened
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
1 cup raisins (optional), rehydrated and patted dry
1 tablespoon lemon or orange zest (optional)

Walnut Filling

3 cups walnuts or pecans
2/3 cup granulated sugar
3 egg whites
2 tablespoons cocoa powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 teaspoons rum extract
1 teaspoon orange extract (optional)
2 tablespoons International Collection™ Walnut Oil

Egg Wash

1 egg yolk
2 tablespoons water

Method

Combine the yeast and warm milk, and let it sit until foamy. In a large bowl, mix together the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the egg yolks, sour cream, vanilla extract, walnut oil, and butter. Knead the dough until smooth and elastic. Cover and let rise until doubled in size.
Prepare the filling: Whip the egg whites with sugar until soft peaks form. Fold in the ground walnuts, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, rum extract, orange extract (if using), and walnut oil.
Roll out the dough, spread the filling evenly, then roll and twist into a loaf shape. Let it rise again until puffy.
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Brush the loaf with egg wash and bake for approximately 50 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Allow to cool before slicing and serving.