Introduction

This Raspberry and Pistachio Wreath is a delightful twist on traditional sweet breads, combining a luscious homemade raspberry jam with crunchy pistachios. Perfect for sharing, its soft, golden crust and vibrant filling make it an irresistible centerpiece for any brunch or tea time.

A round braided bread wreath with twisted layers, showing three distinct layers of soft, light golden brown dough intertwined with two rich, deep red berry jam layers, topped with scattered green pistachio pieces. The bread rests on two sheets of white parchment paper on a white marbled surface, with a small silver bowl of white powdered sugar and a wooden scoop with powdered sugar nearby, along with loose pistachios and a small bowl of red jam. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

Quick Raspberry Jam:
1 cup (110g) fresh or frozen raspberries
3 tablespoons (40g) granulated sugar or liquid sweetener to taste
2 tablespoons (14g) cornstarch / corn flour
Dash of water
Squeeze of lemon juice, to taste (optional)
Wreath Dough:
2 ½ – 3 cups (315 – 375g) all-purpose or bread flour (start with less and add more if needed)
⅔ cup (165g) dairy-free milk, warm
½ cup (115g) vegan butter, room temperature
3 tablespoons (40g) granulated or coconut sugar
1 tablespoon (10g) instant dry yeast
¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
Pinch of salt (if not using salted butter)
Optional Add-ins:
½ cup roughly chopped vegan chocolate
¼ cup raisins
¼ teaspoon ground ginger
To Decorate:
¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
2 tablespoons (30g) water
¼ cup pistachios

Instructions

Step 1: Make the jam by combining raspberries, sugar, cornstarch, a dash of water, and optional lemon juice in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil and cook for 5 minutes, mashing the raspberries as you stir. Reduce heat and simmer until thick and sticky like frosting. Remove from heat and let cool.
Step 2: In a large bowl or stand mixer, combine flour, warm dairy-free milk, vegan butter, sugar, yeast, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and any optional add-ins. Mix until a dough forms.
Step 3: Knead the dough for 5-10 minutes until soft and stretchy but not sticky to the bowl. Adjust with flour or milk if needed.
Step 4: Cover the dough with a tea towel and let it rise in a warm place for at least 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Step 5: On a floured surface, roll the dough into a 25 x 45 cm (10 x 20 inch) rectangle. Spread the cooled jam over the dough, leaving edges clear.
Step 6: Roll the dough from the long side into a tube. Using a sharp knife, cut the tube lengthwise into two strips. Twist the strips together carefully.
Step 7: Shape the twisted dough into a wreath on a lined baking tray. Join the ends and cover. Let it rest in a warm place for at least 1 hour or until it increases in size by about 20%. Alternatively, refrigerate overnight.
Step 8: Preheat the oven to 170°C (340°F). Bake the wreath for 20-30 minutes until golden brown and firm to the touch.
Step 9: To make the glaze, heat sugar and water in a small saucepan, stirring until sugar dissolves. Drizzle the glaze over the warm wreath and sprinkle with pistachios before serving.

Tips & Variations

Use fresh or frozen raspberries for jam depending on availability; frozen can be more convenient and just as tasty.
Add chopped vegan chocolate or raisins to the dough for extra texture and flavor.
If you prefer a more intense spice flavor, increase the cinnamon and nutmeg slightly or add ground ginger.
Make the wreath a day ahead and store it in the fridge overnight to deepen the flavor.

Storage

Store the wreath in an airtight container at room temperature for 1-2 days. It’s best enjoyed fresh on the day it is baked. To refresh, warm slices briefly in the oven or toaster before serving.

How to Serve

A slice of sweet bread is placed in the middle of a white plate on a white marbled surface. The bread has two main layers: the outer layer is a soft, light tan color with a fluffy texture, while the inner layer has swirling lines of a dark red jam filling that contrast with the pale dough. Small bits of green zest are sprinkled on top of the bread and around the plate. In the background, there are blurred jars and another round bread. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular milk instead of dairy-free milk?

Yes, you can substitute regular milk if you are not avoiding dairy. Warm it slightly for best yeast activation.

How do I know if the dough has risen enough?

The dough should roughly double in size and feel airy when you press it gently with a finger. If it slowly springs back, it’s ready for the next step.