Fluffy Easter Kulich Recipe for Celebration

In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, dry yeast, salt, and vanilla extract. Stir well to ensure an even mixture.

Add the warm milk, vegetable oil, melted butter, whole egg, and egg yolk to the dry ingredients.

Mix initially with a spatula or whisk, and as the dough begins to come together, use your hands to knead it for about 10 minutes.

The dough should be smooth and slightly sticky. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap.

Preheat your oven to 50°C (120°F) and then turn it off. Place the covered dough in the oven to rise for approximately 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

Prepare your dried fruits by placing them in a container with brandy if using. This should be done a day in advance. Include dried cranberries, raisins, and candied orange peel.

Once the dough has risen, lightly oil your work surface and transfer the dough onto it.

Sprinkle the prepared dried fruits onto the dough and knead them into the dough until well incorporated.

Divide the dough into equal portions and shape each portion into a ball.

Place the shaped dough into your baking molds. Again, preheat the oven to 50°C (120°F), turn it off, and let the kulich rise for about 40 minutes.

Remove the kulich from the oven and preheat it to 180°C (350°F).

Bake the kulich for approximately 15 to 30 minutes, checking for doneness by inserting a wooden skewer into the center. If it comes out clean, they are ready.

If the tops brown too quickly, cover them with foil while baking.

Once baked, allow the kulich to cool completely on a wire rack.

Brush with glaze and decorate with sprinkles as desired.

Wishing you a bright and joyful Easter celebration!