Ukrainian Paska Holiday Loaf

1. 1

   Proof the yeast in 1/2 cup warm water in a large bowl until slightly frothy, about 5 to 10 minutes.

2. 2

   Meanwhile, dissolve 1/2 cup sugar in warm milk; let it cool to lukewarm. Once cooled, add the milk mixture to the yeast mixture along with 4 cups of flour. Mix well with a wooden spoon. Cover and place in a dark, warm spot until bubbly and doubled in size, about 2 hours.

3. 3

   Stir in the beaten eggs, 1/2 cup sugar, 1 cup butter, salt, and lemon zest until well combined. Gradually add the remaining flour, one cup at a time, to make a very soft dough.

4. 4

   Knead the dough on a floured board until soft and elastic, about 10 minutes. Place the dough in a greased bowl, turning to coat all sides. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 2 hours. Punch the dough down, then let it rise again for 30 minutes.

5. 5

   Divide the dough into three parts, shape into slightly rounded loaves, and place on greased baking sheets. Let rise until doubled, about 45 minutes to 1 hour. Beat 1 egg with 1 tablespoon water; brush over the loaves.

6. 6

   Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).

7. 7

   Bake in the preheated oven until the loaves are deep golden brown, 45 to 50 minutes. When done, brush the tops with melted butter for a soft crust.

• Calories 276.04 kcal Moderate
• Protein 6.46 g Moderate
• Carbs 29.61 g Moderate
• Total Fat 13.89 g Moderate
• Saturated Fat 8.36 g High
• Trans Fat 0.0 g Low Source
• Cholesterol 92.3 mg High
• Sodium 57.46 mg Low Source
• Fiber 1.0 g Low Source
• Sugar 7.73 g Moderate
• Added Sugar 0.28 g Low Source
• Calcium 40.5 mg Low Source
• Iron 1.67 mg Low Source
• Potassium 47.97 mg Low Source
• Vitamin A 45.51 mcg_rae Low Source
• Vitamin C 0.02 mg Low Source
• Vitamin D 1.41 mcg Low Source

Values are per serving. Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet.

• Citrus 🍊
• Eggs 🥚
• Milk 🥛
• Wheat 🌾
• Gluten