Easter Bread (Paska)
Prep 60M | Bake 40M | Enjoy in 1Hr420M
Different regions have different takes on Easter Breads. Hot Cross Buns might immediately come to mind when thinking of Easter baking, but there is a massive variety in Easter breads. This Easter Paska recipe is typical of Ukrainian Easter breads, as well as other countries that can trace their roots all the way back to the ancient Byzantine Empire. Presentation varies but can include braided dough crosses baked into the top. However you choose decorate yours, take time to enjoy your family and loved ones over the Easter holiday.
Ingredients:
3 tbsp yeast
5 cups water
1/2 cup sugar
4 eggs, beaten
1 tbsp salt
3/4 cup oil, reserve 1/4 cup for kneading
12 cups flour
1 tsp vanilla
Directions:
1 – Combine yeast, ½ cup of warm water and 1 tablespoon of sugar in a bowl and let sit for 10 minutes
2 – In a separate bowl, combine the eggs, remaining sugar, salt and ½ cup of the oil, beating well
3 – Add the yeast mixture to the egg mixture and stir well
4 – Add the water and flour, kneading for 10-15 minutes while using the remaining oil to make a soft dough
5 – Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size. Punch down every 20 minutes, four times
6 – Grease a round pan (10-12 inches wide)
7 – Using about 2/3 of the dough, shape into a round loaf and place in the greased round pan
8 – Cover loaf with a cloth and allow to rise until doubled in size, approximately 1 hour
9 – Use the remaining 1/3 of the dough to shape your decorations. This is a great time to let the little ones get creative, making crosses, swirls, rosettes or whatever comes to them.
10 – Once the loaf has risen, attach the decorative dough shapes to the top with a beaten egg white
11 – Brush the loaf with a beaten egg yolk diluted with 1 tablespoon water
12 – Bake at 400°F for 20 minutes, then turn down to 350° F and continue baking for 35-40 minutes
13 – Remove from oven and loaf pan, allowing it to cool on a wire rack
