# Ingredients:
→ Dough
01 - 4 cups all-purpose flour
02 - ⅓ cup granulated sugar
03 - 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
04 - ¾ cup 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 - ¾ cup assorted candied fruits (cherries, orange peel, citron)
11 - 2 tbsp pearl sugar
12 - 1 egg yolk (for egg wash)
13 - 1 tbsp milk (for egg wash)
14 - 1 tbsp apricot jam (for glazing)
# Directions:
01 - Combine warm milk and active dry yeast in a large bowl. Allow to sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
02 - Add flour, sugar, salt, orange zest, vanilla extract, eggs, and softened butter to the yeast mixture. Stir until a soft dough forms.
03 - Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 8 to 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
04 - Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a cloth, and let rise in a warm area for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
05 - Punch down the dough and form it into a large ring on a parchment-lined baking sheet to resemble a crown.
06 - Cover loosely and let the shaped dough rise for an additional 30 to 40 minutes.
07 - Set the oven temperature to 350°F (180°C).
08 - Whisk the egg yolk with milk and brush evenly over the risen dough surface.
09 - Press candied fruits and pearl sugar gently onto the dough to adorn the crown.
10 - Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the crown is golden brown.
11 - Brush warm apricot jam over the baked crown while still warm for a glossy finish. Allow to cool before serving.
