Ingredients

Basic Ingredients

500 grams (4 cups) all-purpose flour
200 grams (1 cup) granulated sugar
250 milliliters (1 cup) milk, warm
100 grams (1/2 cup) butter, melted
5 grams (1 teaspoon) active dry yeast
3 eggs
1/2 teaspoon salt

Flavor Enhancements

1 teaspoon vanilla extract
200 grams (1 cup) mixed dried fruit
Zest of 1 lemon or orange
1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
We recommend:
For vanilla extract:
Prime 50 Organic Madagascar Vanilla Beans. Whole Grade A Vanilla Pods for Vanilla Extract and Baking
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For mixed dried fruit:
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For ground nutmeg:
Prime Dependable Foods Ground Nutmeg – 6 Lb. Bulk Jar - Non-GMO, Kosher, Salt-Free, Allergen-Free Seasoning | Exquisite Spice Fusion
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Instructions

Step 1

Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk and active dry yeast, stirring gently. Allow it to sit for about 10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This step ensures your kulich will rise beautifully.

Add the melted butter, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract to the bowl. Mix everything together until well combined.

Gradually incorporate the all-purpose flour, salt, and ground nutmeg. Knead the dough on a floured surface for approximately 5-10 minutes until it's smooth and elastic.

Step 2

First Rise

Place the kneaded dough in a lightly greased bowl and cover it with a damp cloth. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.

Step 3

Prepare the Baking Pan

Grease your kulich baking pans and line the bottom with parchment paper. It's important to not overfill the pans; they should be filled no more than halfway, allowing room for the dough to rise.

Step 4

Shape and Fill

Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release the air. Fold in the mixed dried fruit and citrus zest. Divide the dough into the prepared pans, filling them appropriately to ensure they rise correctly.

Step 5

Second Rise

Cover the filled pans with a damp cloth again and let them rise for another 30-40 minutes until the dough has risen to about the rim of the pans. This second rise is critical for a fluffy texture.

Step 6

Preheat the Oven

While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Make sure it's fully heated before placing the kulich inside.

Step 7

Bake the Kulich

When the kulich is ready, carefully place them in the oven without opening the door for the first 20 minutes. This helps create a beautiful structure. Bake for 30 to 40 minutes or until golden brown on top.

If the tops are browning too quickly, gently cover them with a sheet of foil to prevent burning.

Step 8

Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove the kulich from the oven and let them cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Remember, if you wrap them too early, condensation can ruin the texture.

Enjoy your perfectly risen Easter kulich with friends and family, and always believe in your baking skills!

Servings

When it’s time to serve your heavenly Easter bread, consider adding a touch of flair! Slice thick pieces and pop them in the toaster for a warm, crispy treat. Serving them with a dollop of homemade butter 🌰 or your favorite jam is a game-changer! 💖

For a more festive presentation, arrange your slices on a beautiful platter, garnished with fresh herbs or edible flowers. 🌼 This not only elevates the visual appeal but also adds a burst of flavor!

And why not pair it with your favorite beverage? A cup of steaming tea ☕ or a refreshing fruit punch can elevate your serving experience to a new level of enjoyment!

Equipment

Mixing Bowl

A good-sized mixing bowl is crucial for combining your ingredients smoothly. Consider using a glass bowl for easy monitoring of the dough texture!

We recommend:
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Loaf Pan

Choose a pan that fits your recipe! For best results, select a non-stick loaf pan to prevent sticking. Remember not to overfill!

We recommend:
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Kitchen Scale

Measuring by weight ensures accuracy, especially with ingredients like flour. It’s worth investing for consistent results!

We recommend:
OXO Good Grips 11-Pound Stainless Steel Food Scale with Pull-Out Display
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Oven Thermometer

Ensure your oven is at the right temperature. An oven thermometer can help avoid any unexpected surprises while baking!

We recommend:
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Variations

If you're looking to tweak the traditional recipe, here are a few exciting variations! 🥳

Gluten-Free Delight: Swap traditional flour for a gluten-free blend. This option is perfect for those with gluten sensitivities, ensuring everyone can join in on the festive fun!

Vegan Version: Replace egg and dairy with plant-based alternatives. Use flax eggs and almond milk to keep that fluffy texture without any animal products. 🌱 Your friends will never guess this treat is vegan!

Faq

  • What if my dough doesn’t rise?

    Check the yeast! Make sure it's fresh by testing it in warm water with a bit of sugar. If it foams, you’re good to go!

  • How can I tell when my bread is done baking?

    A skewer inserted into the center should come out clean, and it should sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. Yum!

  • How do I keep my Easter bread fresh for longer?

    Wrap it in plastic or store it in an airtight container at room temperature. You can even freeze it for later enjoyment!

  • Can I add fruits and nuts to the dough?

    Absolutely! Dried fruits like raisins or cranberries and nuts like almonds can add a delightful twist to your Easter bread.

  • What is the best way to store leftover bread?

    Keep it in a cool, dry place wrapped tightly to prevent it from drying out. Slices can also be toasted for a tasty treat!

  • Why does my bread have a weird texture?

    This can happen if the dough was overworked or if incorrect measurements were used. Precision is key, so weigh your ingredients for the best results!

Nutrition facts

Perfect Easter Kulich: 8 Essential Tips
Recipe Yield:8 servings
Calories:Estimated calories per serving range from 200 to 300.
Calories (Min - Max):200 - 300
Total Fat:8g
Saturated Fat:3g
Protein:5g
Total Carbohydrate:40g
Total Sugars:10g