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Vánočka is a beautiful symbol of Czech Christmas.  This special festive Christmas bread is made from white flour, either in the form of a wedge or in a plaited shape. Vanocka was first mentioned around 1400 by the Benedictine monk Jan of Holešov in his work “Treatise on Christmas Eve.” According to brother Jan this pastry symbolized the Christ Child wrapped in cloth.  

 

Vánočka was further referred to during the 16th century, where it could only be made by a baker who was a guild craftsman. During the 18th century, people took the recipe into their homes and began baking it themselves. Every housekeeper baked one bread for every member of the family. The bread preparation had strict rules.  The housekeeper had to wear a white apron and a scarf on her head. She was also not allowed to speak the whole time, but she could jump up and down to help the dough rise well. 

 

Vánočka is rich in eggs and butter, making it similar to brioche. Lemon rind and rum add color and flavor; the dough can also contain raisins and almonds and is plaited like challah. 

 

Vánočka is braided  from nine strands. 

The bottom 4 strands represent earth, sun, water and air. 

The middle 3 strands symbolize reason, will and feeling.

The top two interwound remaining strands represent love and knowledge. 

Every family has its own recipe for Christmas and it's high time to have a slice!