Vánočka

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Vánočka is a traditional Czech bread, baked at Christmastime. It is rich in eggs and butter, making it similar to brioche. Lemon rind and nutmeg add color and flavor; the dough also contains raisins and almonds, and is braided like challah. A vánočka may be built from three progressively smaller braids, stacked on top of each other; this is sometimes interpreted as a rough sculpture of the child Jesus wrapped in cloth and lying in a manger.

It has a reputation for being difficult to prepare, so in many households, superstitions and special customs are attached to the baking process. When making Vanocka it is said that you must think of everyone dear to you while making it. Another Custom is to avoid touching silver or metal to the Vanocka. Finally, the creator of the Vanocka must not jump up and down while the dough rises.