Paska(Easter Bread)
A traditional Easter bread with sweet, rich flavors, studded with raisins and topped with a shiny egg glaze, perfect for festive gatherings and family celebrations.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Crumble yeast, add 1 teaspoon sugar and 1/2 cup warm water; let sit until frothy.
- Sift 7 1/2 pounds (15 cups) of flour into a large pan.
- Crack eggs into a bowl and beat well, then add to the flour mixture.
- Add 2 cups sugar and 1/4 cup salt to the flour mixture and stir to combine.
- Melt 1/2 pound of butter and heat 1 1/2 quarts of milk or hot water.
- Mix eggs, flour, salt, melted butter, heated milk, and yeast mixture until well combined.
- Let the dough rise for 3 hours, then punch down.
- Let it rise again for another 2 hours, then cut and put into pans.
- Cover and let rise for another hour.
- Beat 1 egg and brush it on top of the bread.
- Press with a fork to release air.
- Bake in a 350°F oven for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a pinch of nutmeg to the dough. If you don't have Crisco, you can substitute it with additional melted butter. Keep the kitchen warm while the dough rises; a warm oven (turned off) or a sunny spot works well. Using freshly activated yeast ensures a better rise.
Serving Suggestions
Paska is delicious served warm with butter or jam. It pairs beautifully with Danish Pudding for a festive brunch. Consider serving it alongside a fresh fruit salad or a light soup for a balanced meal. For a special touch, sprinkle powdered sugar on top before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Once cooled, store leftover Paska in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw at room temperature and warm in the oven at 300°F for about 10 minutes for best results.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Paska(Easter Bread) contains roughly 1490 calories, with 30g protein, 268g carbohydrates, and 41g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (212% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (87% of the Daily Value), and protein (59% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 1 ounce of fresh yeast for every 2 1/4 teaspoons of dry yeast. Dissolve the fresh yeast in warm water with a bit of sugar, then proceed with the recipe as directed.
What can I do if my dough isn't rising?
If your dough isn't rising, ensure your yeast is fresh and activated. If it's cold in your kitchen, try placing the dough in a warm spot or covering it with a damp cloth to retain moisture and warmth. You might also consider using a proofing setting on your oven if available.
Can I add flavors or fillings to this bread?
Absolutely! You can incorporate dried fruits like cranberries or apricots, or add nuts for extra texture. Spices like cinnamon or cardamom can also enhance the flavor. Just be mindful not to overload the dough, as it can affect the rise and texture.
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).