Russian kulich –There’s something truly special about baking traditional holiday recipes, and one that particularly stands out is Mom’s Russian Kulich. This delightful Easter bread isn’t just a feast for the senses; it’s a beautiful way to celebrate the traditions of family and the joy of the season. Let’s dive into making this scrumptious kulich, which will fill your home with sweet aromas and your heart with joy.
Mom’s Russian Kulich – Easter Bread
This light, fluffy bread is the centerpiece of many Easter celebrations in Russian culture. The sweet scent of cardamom and the beautiful golden color make it a joy to both create and savor at the table.
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1 cup milk
- 3 large eggs
- 1 package (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp ground cardamom
- Zest of one lemon
- 1/2 cup mixed dried fruits (raisins, currants, etc.)
- 1/2 cup candied orange peel
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
Instructions
- In a small bowl, warm the milk until it is lukewarm. Stir in the yeast and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and cardamom. Make a well in the center and add the softened butter, eggs, milk with yeast, vanilla extract, and lemon zest.
- Mix until a soft dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic.
- Incorporate the mixed dried fruits and candied orange peel, kneading just enough to evenly distribute them in the dough.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours or until it doubles in size.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). After the dough has risen, punch it down and shape it into a loaf or divide it into smaller portions for individual kulich.
- Place the shaped dough into greased pans and let it rise again for about 30 minutes.
- Brush the tops with beaten egg for a shiny finish, then bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the kulich to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Enjoy slicing into this heavenly kulich during your Easter celebration! Whether it’s sharing with family or enjoying a quiet moment with a cup of tea, this bread is a delight that captures the essence of joy and togetherness. Happy baking!