Paska
A rich Ukrainian Easter bread with a soft, fluffy texture, sweet raisin flavor, and a shiny golden crust, perfect for festive celebrations or special brunch gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dissolve 1 tablespoon sugar in 1 cup lukewarm water and add 3 packages dry yeast; let stand for 10 minutes.
- Add 3 cups scalded and lukewarm milk and 4 1/2 cups flour; mix until smooth and let rise until bubbly.
- Add beaten eggs, 2 cups light raisins, 1 1/2 cups sugar, 1 cup melted butter, and salt; mix thoroughly.
- Add enough flour to make a dough that does not stick to your hand.
- Knead until shining.
- Let rise until double in size.
- Punch down and let rise again.
- Divide and round dough into 3 balls, placing each in greased round pans to double in size.
- Brush the tops with a beaten egg mixed with 2 tablespoons water.
- Bake at 350°F for 15 minutes, then at 325°F for 35 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, ensure your milk is scalded but not boiling when combining with yeast. If you prefer, substitute half of the flour with whole wheat for a heartier texture. Adding a pinch of nutmeg can enhance the flavor profile. Kneading the dough until it shines is crucial for a good rise. If you're short on time, consider using pre-made dough.
Serving Suggestions
Paska is delightful served warm, perhaps with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey. It pairs beautifully with Easy Vanilla Mousse for a sweet finish or can be enjoyed alongside a cup of coffee as a breakfast treat. Consider serving it with a side of fresh fruit for a balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Paska in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm in a 300°F oven for about 10-15 minutes to restore freshness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Paska contains roughly 770 calories, with 11g protein, 107g carbohydrates, and 35g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (28% of the Daily Value) and protein (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1070mg per serving (47% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh yeast instead of dry yeast?
Yes, you can substitute fresh yeast for dry yeast. Use about three times the amount of fresh yeast compared to dry. Make sure to dissolve it in warm water before adding to the mixture to ensure it activates properly.
What if my dough doesn't rise?
If your dough doesn't rise, it could be due to inactive yeast or the environment being too cold. Ensure your yeast is fresh and the water is warm, not hot. Allow the dough to rise in a warm, draft-free area. If still unsuccessful, try placing it in an oven with just the light on.
Can I add other ingredients to the dough?
Absolutely! You can add nuts, citrus zest, or spices to enhance the flavor. Dried cranberries or currants can be used in place of raisins for a different twist. Just remember to adjust the sugar based on the sweetness of any additional ingredients.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).