Sweet Paska
Sweet Paska is a rich, yeasted bread with tender raisins and a light, fluffy texture, perfect for festive occasions or a special breakfast treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dissolve yeast in lukewarm, scalded milk that has been cooled.
- Add 3 cups of flour and 1/2 cup of sugar to the yeast mixture and mix.
- Let the mixture rise until doubled in size and bubbly, approximately 2 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting whole milk for scalded milk. If you don't have white raisins, golden raisins or dried cranberries can be excellent alternatives. Ensure your yeast is fresh for optimal rising, and if you're in a hurry, a warm, draft-free spot can speed up the rising process. Always check the dough's texture; it should be soft but not sticky.
Serving Suggestions
Sweet Paska is delightful on its own but can be enhanced with a dusting of powdered sugar or a simple glaze. For a festive touch, serve it alongside fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream. It also pairs beautifully with Lorraine'S Date Cake for a special occasion dessert table.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Sweet Paska in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to a month. To reheat, simply place slices in a toaster or warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sweet Paska contains roughly 1303 calories, with 16g protein, 158g carbohydrates, and 69g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (31% of the Daily Value), iron (31% of the Daily Value), and calcium (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2091mg per serving (91% 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 active dry yeast instead of cake yeast?
Yes, you can substitute active dry yeast for cake yeast. Use about 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) of active dry yeast. Dissolve it in the lukewarm milk before adding other ingredients. This substitution works well, but the rising times may vary slightly.
What can I add to this recipe for extra flavor?
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a pinch of nutmeg. You can also mix in some chopped nuts or citrus zest for added texture and taste. Just be cautious not to overpack the dough with extras, as this might affect the rise.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough a day in advance and refrigerate it after the first rise. Allow it to come to room temperature and rise again before baking. This makes it convenient for special occasions, ensuring you can enjoy freshly baked Sweet Paska without the last-minute rush.
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).