Embark on a culinary journey with this exquisite orange-infused sweet bread, a cherished heirloom recipe traditionally baked to celebrate New Year's Day. Hidden within its golden crumb is a lucky coin, promising fortune to the one who discovers it. Beyond its festive significance, this aromatic bread is a delightful treat to enjoy any time of the year, filling your kitchen with an irresistible fragrance.

Follow The Directions

01

Step

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine orange juice, water, and cinnamon. Heat in the microwave until the mixture reaches 110 degrees F (43 degrees C), approximately 1 to 2 minutes.

02

Step

Stir in the yeast to the warm orange juice mixture. Allow it to stand until the yeast becomes creamy and frothy, about 45 minutes.

03

Step

In the bowl of a stand mixer, cream together sugar and melted margarine until light and fluffy. Add eggs and beat on high speed for 30 seconds. Mix in the yeast mixture and orange zest until well combined.

04

Step

In a separate bowl, sift together flour, salt, and baking powder. Gradually add this mixture to the stand mixer, using a bread hook, until a soft and slightly sticky dough forms, about 5 minutes.

05

Step

Transfer the dough to a large, lightly oiled glass bowl. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size, approximately 2 to 4 hours.

06

Step

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease two round cake pans.

07

Step

Divide the dough into two equal pieces. Place one wrapped coin in each piece. Knead each piece for 2 to 3 minutes and shape into a smooth ball. Place one ball of dough in each prepared cake pan. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise until puffy, approximately 2 to 4 hours more.

08

Step

In a small bowl, whisk together egg white and vanilla extract. Gently brush this mixture over the top of each dough ball.

09

Step

Bake in the preheated oven until a knife inserted into the center comes out with only a few moist crumbs attached, approximately 30 to 55 minutes.

For an extra touch of flavor, consider adding a pinch of mahlab (ground cherry seeds) to the dough.
Be patient during the rising process, as this is key to achieving a light and airy texture.
If the dough is too sticky, gradually add more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches the desired consistency.
Make sure to wrap the coins tightly in aluminum foil to prevent them from reacting with the dough.
Let the bread cool slightly before slicing and serving. Enjoy the thrill of the coin hunt!