Paska Easter Bread Recipe

Paska Easter Bread Recipe

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Growing up, Easter was always a magical time in our home, filled with traditions that brought us together. One of my fondest memories is baking Paska Easter Bread Recipe with my grandmother. As we mixed the ingredients, the sweet aroma of freshly baked bread would fill the kitchen, wrapping us in warmth and nostalgia. This bread isn’t just food; it’s a symbol of our heritage, a cherished family recipe passed down through generations. The process is a labor of love, requiring patience and care, but the end result is nothing short of spectacular. The rich, soft texture of the bread topped with a sweet glaze is simply irresistible. Whether enjoyed during Easter festivities or any time of year, this bread brings a sense of joy and togetherness that is hard to replicate. Can you imagine sharing a slice with your loved ones, a warm cup of tea in hand? It’s a celebration of life and love, and I can’t wait to share this special recipe with you!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
7 hr 5 mins
Prep Time:
390 mins
Cook Time:
35 mins
Difficulty:
Hard
Calories:
450 kcal
Protein:
8 g
Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP
Fat:
22 g
Tools Used:
Oven, Wooden Spoon, Whisk, Baking Sheet, Mixing Bowl, Frying Pan

Why You’ll Love This Paska Easter Bread Recipe

1. A Tradition Worth Keeping

Baking Paska Easter Bread Recipe isn’t just about the bread itself; it’s about the memories we create while making it. I remember the joy in my grandmother’s eyes as we kneaded the dough, sharing stories of our family’s past. Each step in the process is accompanied by laughter and love, making it a cherished tradition that I pass on to my own children.

2. The Perfect Blend of Flavors

This bread is a delightful combination of ingredients that work harmoniously together. The rich flavor of the butter and eggs gives it a luxurious texture, while the raisins add a touch of sweetness. The addition of lemon juice in the glaze provides a refreshing contrast, making every bite a burst of flavor.

3. A Festive Centerpiece

What I love most about Paska Easter Bread Recipe is its versatility. Not only does it taste amazing, but it also makes for a beautiful centerpiece during Easter celebrations. The golden-brown crust, topped with a glossy glaze and colorful sprinkles, is sure to impress your guests.

4. A Recipe That Connects Generations

Every time I make this bread, I feel a connection to the past. It’s a reminder of my roots and the strong women in my family who have made it for years. Sharing this recipe with friends and family keeps the tradition alive, allowing us to create new memories while honoring the old.

5. The Aroma of Home

The smell of Paska Easter Bread Recipe baking in the oven is indescribable. It fills the home with warmth and comfort, inviting everyone to gather around. There’s something about that fresh bread aroma that makes you feel at home no matter where you are.

FAQ

Paska bread is a traditional Eastern European Easter bread, often associated with Ukrainian and Polish cultures. This sweet yeast bread is typically made with eggs, sugar, and milk, giving it a rich flavor and soft texture. It’s often served during Easter celebrations and can be enjoyed fresh or toasted. The name ‘Paska’ comes from the Slavic word for Easter, reflecting its significance during this special time of year.

Absolutely! Paska bread can be made ahead of time and stored properly. Once baked and cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it at room temperature for a few days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing the bread. Just ensure it’s completely cooled, then wrap it in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil, and place it in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it at room temperature.

There are many delicious variations you can try with Paska Easter Bread Recipe. Feel free to experiment with different dried fruits, such as cranberries or apricots, or nuts like walnuts for added texture and flavor. Some people enjoy adding citrus zest for an extra burst of freshness. You could also try a flavored glaze or incorporating spices like cinnamon or nutmeg into the dough for a unique twist on this classic recipe.

To store leftover Paska bread, place it in an airtight container at room temperature. It should stay fresh for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Make sure the bread is completely cool before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and placing it in the freezer. Label your package with the date so you can enjoy it later!

Conclusion

Paska Easter Bread Recipe is a wonderful way to celebrate traditions while enjoying a delicious treat. Its sweet flavor and rich texture make it a beloved choice for Easter and beyond. I encourage you to try making this bread; you’ll not only enjoy a delightful homemade treat but also create lasting memories with your loved ones. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and bake some joy today!

Paska Easter Bread Recipe

Paska Easter Bread Recipe

Experience the warmth of tradition with this delightful Paska Easter Bread Recipe. Soft, sweet, and topped with a zesty lemon glaze, this bread is perfect for Easter or any special occasion. Treat your family to a slice of history and create new memories today!
Prep Time 6 hours 30 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 7 hours 5 minutes
Servings: 3 large paska breads
Course: Desserts
Cuisine: Eastern European
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups warm milk I used whole milk
  • 6 large eggs room temperature
  • 1 Tbsp active dry yeast
  • 2 cups sugar
  • 2 sticks unsalted butter (1/2 lb or 226 gr), melted (if using salted butter, omit salt)
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 9 cups all-purpose Canadian flour divided
  • 1 to 1 1/2 cups raisins white or brown
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 3 Tbsp Lemon juice
  • 3 large Panettone Paper Molds we purchased them on Amazon

Equipment

  • Oven
  • Wooden Spoon
  • Whisk
  • Baking Sheet
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Frying Pan

Method
 

  1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups + 2 Tbsp warm milk, 6 eggs, 1 Tbsp yeast, 2 cups sugar, 2 sticks melted butter (just warm, not hot!), 1/2 tsp salt, 1/2 cup sour cream and 1 tsp vanilla. Whisk in 4 cups flour. Your batter will be thick like sour cream. Cover bowl with plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place or a warm oven (about 100˚F) for 2 hours.
  2. Add 5 more cups of flour; one cup at a time or until the dough no longer sticks to your hands (it will still feel sticky but won’t stick to your fingers). I find it's easiest to fold flour in with a silicone spatula. Dough should be soft. Stir in 1 to 1 1/2 cups raisins. Cover and let dough rise another 2 hours in a warm oven (100˚F).
  3. Divide dough evenly into the three paper baking molds; try not to mix it or stomp it down too much. Let dough rise uncovered in a warm 100˚F oven for an additional 2 hours or until the molds are almost full.
  4. Remove from the oven and preheat oven to 350˚F. Bake at 350˚F for 30-35 minutes in the middle of the oven until the top is golden brown. Let cool to room temp or just warm and then tear off the wrapper.
  5. Once the Breads are at room temperature and wrappers are off, get your frosting ready. In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 cups powdered sugar with 3 Tbsp Lemon juice. Add a little water if it's too thick or a little more powdered sugar if it's too runny. Pour the glaze over each cooled Easter bread. Traditionally, these are topped with colorful sprinkles before the glaze sets.

Notes

  • Storage: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: You can freeze the bread after it has cooled completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for up to 3 months.
  • Variations: Try adding different dried fruits or nuts to the dough for extra flavor and texture.
  • Serving: This bread is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet treat any time of the day.
  • Gifting: Wrap a loaf to give as a gift during the holidays or special occasions.

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