Cassie Best’s babka wreath grazing board with cheese & spiced cranberry jam
Create a perfect centrepiece for any Christmas get-together with this showstopping bread wreath. If you like, add charcuterie, fruit, nuts, crackers and an assortment of cheeses to make an impressive spread.
SERVES 8-10 PREP 40 mins plus at least 2 hrs 30 mins proving COOK 40 mins MORE EFFORT V
550g strong white bread flour, plus extra for dusting
7g sachet fast-action dried yeast
1 tbsp caster sugar
2 eggs, beaten
olive oil, for proving
150g butter, softened
5 garlic cloves, crushed
small bunch of parsley, finely chopped
a few rosemary and sage sprigs, plus extra rosemary sprigs to garnish
1 wheel of camembert (ensure vegetarian, if needed)
halved figs, dried cranberries, sliced pears, dates, walnuts, almonds, cured meats and cheeses, or any charcuterie accompaniments of your choice, to serve (optional)
For the spiced cranberry jam
250g fresh or frozen cranberries
100g caster sugar
1 tsp chilli flakes
Weigh the flour and yeast into a large bowl or stand mixer. Add the sugar and 2 tsp salt and combine using your fingers or a wooden spoon. Add most of the egg, reserving a little for glazing later, and 300ml warm water. Mix until the ingredients start to clump together, then tip the dough out onto a work surface and knead for 8-10 mins
