Choreg (Armenian Easter Bread) Recipe
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Loading... - Ashley Flores
- 11 Mar 2025
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Choreg is a traditional Armenian sweet bread often enjoyed during Easter celebrations. It is flavored with mahleb (a spice made from the seeds of a specific cherry) and sometimes includes a hint of orange or lemon zest. This delicious bread is soft, slightly sweet, and has a beautiful braided shape. Here’s how to make it:
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk (warm)
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground mahleb (or substitute with ground cardamom if unavailable)
- Zest of 1 orange (optional)
- Zest of 1 lemon (optional)
For the Topping:
- 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
- Sesame seeds (for sprinkling)
Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine the warm milk, 1 tablespoon of sugar, and the yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, remaining sugar, salt, and mahleb. If using, add the orange and lemon zest.
- Make a well in the center and add the melted butter, eggs, and the activated yeast mixture.
- Mix until a dough forms. You can use a wooden spoon or your hands.
- Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour as needed.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Divide the dough into 3 equal pieces.
- Roll each piece into a long rope (about 12-14 inches long). Braid the three ropes together to form a loaf. Pinch the ends to seal.
- Place the braided loaf on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover it with a towel and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Once the dough has risen again, brush the top with the beaten egg and sprinkle sesame seeds over it.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Remove the choreg from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Choreg is a delightful addition to any Easter celebration or family gathering. Its sweet aroma and soft texture make it a favorite among many. Enjoy it plain or with a spread of butter or jam.
