# What You'll Need:
→ Dough
01 - 4 cups all-purpose flour
02 - ⅓ cup granulated sugar
03 - 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
04 - ¾ cup plus 1 tbsp warm milk
05 - 2 large eggs
06 - 7 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
07 - 1 tsp salt
08 - Zest of 1 orange
09 - 1 tsp vanilla extract
→ Decoration
10 - ⅔ cup assorted candied fruits (cherries, orange peel, citron)
11 - 2 tbsp pearl sugar
12 - 1 egg yolk
13 - 1 tbsp milk
14 - 1 tbsp apricot jam
# Step-by-Step Guide:
01 - Combine warm milk and active dry yeast in a large bowl and let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
02 - Add flour, sugar, salt, orange zest, vanilla extract, eggs, and softened butter to the yeast mixture. Mix until a soft dough forms.
03 - Knead dough on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
04 - Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
05 - Punch down the dough and shape it into a large ring on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
06 - Cover loosely and let the shaped dough rise for 30–40 minutes.
07 - Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
08 - Whisk egg yolk with milk and brush over the risen dough.
09 - Decorate with candied fruits and pearl sugar, pressing gently into the dough.
10 - Bake for 25–30 minutes or until golden brown.
11 - While still warm, brush with warmed apricot jam for shine and let cool before serving.
