World Flavors Cookbook

Paska (Ukrainian Easter Bread)

A sweet, rich, and beautifully decorated tall bread baked specifically for the Easter Sunday celebration.

Cuisine: Ukraine

Ingredients

• 800g-1kg all-purpose flour
• 500ml milk
• 40g fresh yeast
• 200g sugar
• 150g butter, melted
• 4 egg yolks
• 1/2 cup raisins
• 1 tsp salt
• Vanilla and orange zest
• For decoration: Extra dough or icing and sprinkles

Instructions

1. Prepare the sponge with warm milk, yeast, and some sugar and flour. Let rise for 30-40 minutes.
2. Whisk yolks with remaining sugar and salt. Combine with the sponge, zest, and vanilla.
3. Add flour gradually, then knead in the melted butter. Add raisins. Knead until smooth and let rise for 1.5-2 hours.
4. Fill tall cylindrical tins 1/3 full with dough. Let rise until the dough reaches 3/4 of the height.
5. Brush with egg wash. Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 40-50 minutes. If the top gets too dark, cover with foil.
6. Remove from tins carefully and cool on their sides to prevent collapsing.
7. Decorate with white icing and colored sprinkles or traditional dough ornaments before serving.