15+ Recipe For Ukrainian Easter Paska Cook Up Something Special!
Published on: Mar 10, 2024
If you're looking to add a touch of Eastern European tradition to your Easter celebration, then look no further than the Ukrainian Easter paska. This sweet, rich bread is a staple in Ukrainian households during the holiday season and is often enjoyed as a breakfast treat on Easter morning. With its delicate flavors and intricate designs, the paska is not only a delicious addition to any meal, but also a beautiful centerpiece for your holiday table.
Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Milk, Yeast, Egg Yolks, Butter
Paska, also known as Ukrainian Easter Bread, is a traditional sweet bread that is often served during Easter in Ukrainian households. It is a symbol of the resurrection of Jesus Christ and is typically decorated with intricate designs and symbols. The process of making Paska is a long-standing tradition that has been passed down from generation to generation, making it not just a delicious treat, but also a cherished part of Ukrainian culture.
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Paska Easter Bread
Main Ingredients: Whole Milk, Instant Yeast, Granulated Sugar, Unsalted
The Paska Easter Bread recipe varies from family to family, with each household having their own unique twist on the classic recipe. However, the main ingredients usually include flour, eggs, sugar, butter, and yeast. The bread is typically baked in a round shape and decorated with symbols such as a cross, flowers, or doves. It is then served as part of the Easter feast, along with other traditional dishes.
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Paska Easter Bread (Kulich)
Main Ingredients: Milk, Eggs, Active Dry Yeast, Sugar, Unsalted Butter
In some regions of Ukraine, Paska is also known as Kulich, which means "tower" in Ukrainian. This name comes from the tall, cylindrical shape of the bread. It is also often referred to as "Easter Babka" or "Easter Cake" because of its rich and cake-like texture. Whatever name it goes by, Paska is always a staple of the Easter celebration in Ukraine.
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Paska (Easter Bread) Homemade
Main Ingredients: Wheat Flour, Sugar, Butter, Salt, Yeast, Milk, Egg
While Paska can be found in many Ukrainian bakeries during Easter, there is nothing quite like making it at home. The process may seem daunting, but the end result is worth the effort. Homemade Paska has a special touch that can only come from the love and care put into making it.
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Paska - Ukranian Easter Bread
Main Ingredients: Yeast, Flour, Warm Water, Butter, Milk, Eggs, Sugar
One of the unique features of Paska is the intricate designs that are often created on the bread's surface. These designs are made by using a special tool called a "pysanka," which is a stylus used to draw intricate patterns and symbols with melted beeswax. The bread is then baked, and the wax is removed, revealing the beautiful designs underneath.
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Easter Bread (Paska,Kulich)
Main Ingredients: Egg Yolks, Milk, Yeast, Sugar, Melted Butter, Vanilla
In addition to being a symbol of Easter, Paska also has deep spiritual meaning for the Ukrainian people. It is believed that the bread should be blessed by a priest before being consumed, and it is often placed in a basket along with other traditional Easter foods to be blessed during the Easter liturgy.
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“Quick” Paska (Mennonite Easter Bread)
Main Ingredients: Granulated Sugar, Milk, Whipping Cream, Water, Butter
Paska is not just a tradition in Ukraine, but also in many other Eastern European countries, such as Russia, Belarus, and Poland. In fact, many Mennonite communities in North America also have their own version of Paska, which is often referred to as "Mennonite Easter Bread." This version of Paska is usually a simpler and quicker recipe, but still just as delicious.
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Gluten-Free Easter Bread (Paska)
Main Ingredients: Warm Water, Granulated Sugar, Rapid Rise Yeast, White
For those with gluten sensitivities, there are also gluten-free versions of Paska available. These recipes often use alternative flours such as almond or coconut flour, and can still produce a delicious and festive Easter bread. However, it is always best to check with the baker or restaurant beforehand to ensure that the bread is truly gluten-free.
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Homemade Paska - Slovak Easter Bread
Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Instant Dry Yeast, Granulated Sugar
While Paska is most commonly associated with Ukrainian culture, it is also a staple in other Eastern European countries, such as Slovakia. The Slovak version of Paska is similar to the Ukrainian one, but sometimes includes raisins or dried fruit in the dough. It is usually served with a sweet glaze or icing on top.
In Ukraine, Paska is often enjoyed with a spread of butter, honey, or jam. It can also be served with other traditional Easter dishes, such as Kielbasa (sausage) or Babka (a sweet cheese spread). Paska is a versatile bread that can be enjoyed in many different ways, making it a beloved part of the Easter celebration.
As with most traditional dishes, Paska has evolved over time, with modern variations incorporating different flavors and ingredients. Some versions may include chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit, while others may be made with whole wheat flour for a healthier option. However, no matter the variation, Paska remains a beloved and essential part of Ukrainian Easter celebrations.
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Ukrainian Babka Bread (Easter Bread)
Main Ingredients: Fresh Yeast, Active Dry Yeast, Whole Milk, All Purpose
In some regions of Ukraine, Paska may also be referred to as "Babka," which means "grandmother" in Ukrainian. This name may have originated from the tradition of grandmothers passing down their Paska recipes to their grandchildren, ensuring that the tradition lives on for generations to come.
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Paska - A Traditional Sweet Easter Bread
Main Ingredients: Milk, Butter, Eggs, Sugar, Salt, Flour, Yeast, Cream
Whether you call it Paska, Kulich, or Babka, one thing remains the same – this traditional sweet Easter bread is a staple in Ukrainian households and a symbol of Easter celebrations. The process of making Paska may take time and effort, but the end result is a delicious and meaningful addition to any Easter feast.
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Paska – A Traditional Sweet Easter Bread
Main Ingredients: Milk, Butter, Eggs, Sugar, Salt, Flour, Yeast, Cream
While Paska is most commonly associated with Easter, it is also a popular bread for other special occasions, such as weddings, baptisms, and funerals. In these instances, the bread may be decorated with different symbols and designs to reflect the specific occasion.
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Easter Bread, or Ukrainian Babka
Main Ingredients: Warm Water, Sugar, Yeast, Butter, Milk, Cold Water
For those who are not familiar with Ukrainian culture, Paska may seem like just another sweet bread. However, for those who grew up with this tradition, it is a reminder of family, heritage, and the importance of passing down traditions to future generations. Paska is more than just a delicious treat – it is a symbol of love and community.
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Ukrainian Easter Cake – Cottage Cheese Paska
Main Ingredients: Sour Cream, Sugar, Butter, Vanilla Sugar, Cottage
In some regions of Ukraine, Paska may also include cottage cheese in the dough, giving it a denser and more moist texture. This version is often referred to as "Ukrainian Easter Cake" and is a popular variation of the traditional Paska recipe.
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Nana's Easter Paska Bread
Main Ingredients: Milk, Unsalted Butter, Sugar, Salt, Yeast, Water
Many people have fond memories of their grandmothers making Paska during Easter. The smell of freshly baked bread filling the house, the anticipation of the beautiful designs and decorations, and the first bite of the sweet and fluffy bread – all these memories make Paska a cherished part of many people's childhoods.
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Italian Easter Bread
Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Whole Milk, Granulated Sugar
In addition to Eastern European countries, Paska has also made its way to other parts of the world, such as Italy. The Italian version of Paska, known as "Pane di Pasqua," is similar to the Ukrainian one, but may include different spices and flavorings, such as anise or candied fruits.
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Slovak Easter Paska Bread
Main Ingredients: Milk, Sugar, Salt, Butter, Active Dry Yeast, Warm
While Paska is an essential part of the Easter celebration, it is not just limited to this holiday. In Slovakia, Paska is also a popular bread during Christmas and is often served with honey, poppy seed, or caramel toppings. This version is usually sweeter and richer than the Easter version.
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Easter Paska Bread
Main Ingredients: Whole Milk, Raisins, All Purpose Flour, Sugar, Instant
As you can see, Paska is much more than just a bread – it is a symbol of faith, family, and tradition. Whether you prefer the traditional recipe or a modern variation, Paska will always hold a special place in the hearts and homes of those who celebrate Easter in Ukraine and beyond.
Ingredients
For the dough:
3 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup sugar
1/2 cup warm milk
1/2 cup melted butter
3 large eggs
1/4 cup golden raisins
1/4 cup chopped almonds
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp salt
1/4 tsp saffron threads
For the decoration:
1 egg, beaten
1/4 cup slivered almonds
1/4 cup golden raisins
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the dough
In a small bowl, dissolve the saffron threads in warm milk and let sit for 10 minutes.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Make a well in the center and add in the melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and the milk with saffron.
Mix all the ingredients together until a smooth dough forms.
Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes, until it becomes elastic and no longer sticks to your hands.
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour.
Step 2: Add in the raisins and almonds
Once the dough has doubled in size, punch it down and knead in the raisins and chopped almonds.
Form the dough into a round loaf and place it in a greased 9-inch cake pan.
Using a sharp knife, make a cross-shaped cut on the top of the dough.
Step 3: Decorate the paska
Brush the beaten egg over the top of the dough and sprinkle the slivered almonds and golden raisins on top.
Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise for an additional 30 minutes.
Step 4: Bake and enjoy
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Bake the paska for 30-35 minutes, until it turns golden brown.
Let the paska cool before slicing and serving it as a delicious Easter treat.
Now that you have the recipe for traditional Ukrainian Easter paska, you can share this delicious dish with your family and friends during the holiday season. Serve it as a sweet breakfast bread or alongside your Easter dinner for a touch of Eastern European flavor. Don't forget to include this beautiful and tasty paska as part of your Easter tradition.
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