20+ Ukrainian Christmas Kolach Recipe Experience Flavor Like Never Before!
Published on: Apr 4, 2024
Ukrainian Christmas is a time of celebration, tradition, and delicious food. One of the most beloved dishes during this holiday season is the kolach, a sweet and decorative bread that is an essential part of the Christmas feast. This traditional bread is not only a staple in Ukrainian homes, but it is also a symbol of unity and prosperity for the coming year. In this article, we will take a closer look at the history of the Ukrainian Christmas kolach and share a classic recipe that will help you bring a taste of Ukraine into your home this holiday season.
Start off your holiday season with a traditional Ukrainian Christmas bread, Kolach. Made with a rich dough and filled with dried fruits and nuts, this bread is a staple at Ukrainian Christmas celebrations. It's perfect for a cozy night in with loved ones or as a gift for a friend.
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Christmas Bread
Main Ingredients: Sugar, Butter, Vanilla, Large Eggs, Flour, Baking
For a classic Christmas bread, look no further than this recipe. Made with simple ingredients like flour, yeast, and sugar, this bread is easy to make and perfect for any holiday gathering. Serve it warm with a pat of butter for a delicious treat.
Bring some Italian flair to your holiday table with this easy homemade Panettone recipe. This sweet bread is packed with flavorful ingredients like raisins, candied orange peel, and almonds. It's the perfect addition to any Christmas brunch or dinner.
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CHRISTMAS TREE PULL APART BREAD | HOLIDAY CHRISTMAS...
Main Ingredients: Water, Sugar, Active Dry Yeast, All Purpose Flour
Impress your guests with this festive Christmas tree pull-apart bread. Made with flavorful ingredients like garlic, herbs, and cheese, this bread is not only delicious but also a fun and unique way to serve bread at your next holiday gathering.
If you're looking for a way to use up leftover Christmas bread, look no further than this bread pudding recipe. With a rich custard base and chunks of bread, this dessert is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent treat.
Celebrate the holidays Scandinavian-style with this Norwegian Christmas bread. Made with cardamom, cinnamon, and raisins, this bread is a delicious and unique addition to your holiday table. Serve it warm with a cup of coffee for a cozy treat.
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Romanian Easter & Christmas Bread Cozonac
Main Ingredients: Milk, Granulated Sugar, Butter, Bread Flour, Active Dry
For a traditional Romanian holiday treat, try this Cozonac recipe. Made with a rich dough and filled with nuts and dried fruits, this bread is a must-have for any Easter or Christmas celebration. It's also a great gift for friends and family.
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Viennese Christmas Bread
Main Ingredients: Dried Cranberries, Rum, Warm Water, Active Dry Yeast
Add some European elegance to your holiday table with this Viennese Christmas bread recipe. Made with a buttery dough and filled with nuts and spices, this bread is sure to impress. Serve it with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a truly indulgent treat.
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A Christmas bread
Main Ingredients: Instant Yeast, Sugar, All Purpose Flour, Salt, Vanilla
Sometimes, simple is best. This Christmas bread recipe is made with just a few basic ingredients but still packs a punch of flavor. It's perfect for those who want a traditional Christmas bread without all the added bells and whistles.
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Cranberry Christmas Bread
Main Ingredients: Milk, Butter, Eggs, Brown Sugar, Whole Wheat Pastry
Add some holiday cheer to your bread with this cranberry Christmas bread recipe. The tart cranberries add a pop of flavor to the sweet bread, making it a perfect addition to your holiday breakfast or brunch. Serve it with a drizzle of honey for a touch of sweetness.
If you love Panettone but want a more homemade version, this Italian Christmas bread recipe is for you. Made with eggs, butter, and candied fruit, this bread is a labor of love that will impress your guests and your taste buds.
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Provencal Christmas Bread
Main Ingredients: Active Dry Yeast, Granulated Sugar, Honey, Flour, Salt
For a taste of the French countryside, try this Provencal Christmas bread recipe. Made with savory ingredients like olives, cheese, and herbs, this bread is a unique and delicious addition to any holiday gathering. Serve it with a glass of red wine for the full French experience.
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CZECH CHRISTMAS BREAD (VÁNOČKA)
Main Ingredients: Milk, White Sugar, Dried Yeast, All Purpose Flour
Travel to the Czech Republic with this traditional Christmas bread recipe. Made with a braided dough and filled with raisins and almonds, this bread is a staple at Czech Christmas celebrations. It's perfect for sharing with friends and family over the holidays.
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Panettone [Italian Christmas Bread]
Main Ingredients: Raisins, Light Rum, Hot Water, All Purpose Flour
For a truly authentic Italian Christmas bread experience, try this Panettone recipe. Made with a rich dough and filled with dried fruits and nuts, this bread is a staple at Italian Christmas celebrations. It's also a great gift for friends and family.
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Greek Christmas Bread - Christopsomos
Main Ingredients: Bread Flour, Water, Instant Yeast, Poolish, Salt
Add a Mediterranean twist to your holiday bread with this Greek Christmas bread recipe. Made with a deliciously sweet dough and topped with sesame seeds, this bread is a must-try for any fan of Greek cuisine. Serve it warm with a drizzle of honey for a truly indulgent treat.
Similar to the traditional Norwegian Christmas bread, this Julekake recipe is slightly different and equally delicious. It's made with a rich dough and filled with raisins and cardamom, making it a perfect addition to any holiday meal or as a gift for a loved one.
For a sweeter version of the traditional Norwegian Christmas bread, try this Julekake recipe. Made with a rich dough and filled with dried fruits and nuts, this bread is a must-have for any holiday celebration. It's also a great gift for friends and family.
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Fruit & Berry Christmas Bread
Main Ingredients: Milk, Egg, Butter, Salt, Flour, Sugar, Ginger, Canela
Add a burst of fruity flavor to your holiday bread with this fruit and berry Christmas bread recipe. Made with dried cranberries, apricots, and cherries, this bread is a delicious twist on the traditional Christmas bread. Serve it warm with a pat of butter for a delicious treat.
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Yulekaga (Scandinavian Christmas Bread)
Main Ingredients: Milk, Active Dry Yeast, Lukewarm Water, Granulated
For a Scandinavian take on the traditional Christmas bread, try this Yulekaga recipe. Made with a sweet dough and filled with raisins and cardamom, this bread is a delicious and unique addition to any holiday table. It's also a great gift for friends and family.
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Stollen (German Christmas Bread)
Main Ingredients: Raisins, Candied Lemon Peel, Candied Orange Peel
End your holiday meal on a high note with this German Christmas bread, Stollen. Made with a rich dough and filled with dried fruits and nuts, this bread is a decadent and delicious treat. Serve it with a cup of hot chocolate for the ultimate holiday indulgence.
The History of Ukrainian Christmas Kolach
The Symbolism Behind the Bread
The kolach has been a part of Ukrainian Christmas celebrations for centuries, and its origins can be traced back to pre-Christian times. The round shape of the bread represents the circle of life and the unity of the family. The braided design symbolizes the interconnection and strength of the community. In ancient times, the kolach was also seen as a symbol of prosperity and fertility, with the ingredients used in its making representing the abundance of the harvest.
The Evolution of the Recipe
The recipe for the Ukrainian Christmas kolach has evolved over the years, with each region and family having their own unique twist on this holiday staple. Traditionally, the bread was made with simple ingredients such as flour, water, yeast, and salt. However, as trade and technology advanced, more ingredients were introduced, including eggs, butter, and sugar. Today, the kolach is often decorated with dried fruits, nuts, and poppy seeds, making it a true work of art.
A Classic Ukrainian Christmas Kolach Recipe
Now that we have learned about the history and symbolism behind the Ukrainian Christmas kolach, it's time to roll up our sleeves and make our own. Here is a classic recipe that is sure to impress your family and friends this holiday season.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups of all-purpose flour
- 1 cup of warm milk
- 1/2 cup of melted butter
- 1/4 cup of sugar
- 2 eggs
- 2 teaspoons of active dry yeast
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 cup of raisins
- 1/4 cup of chopped walnuts
- 1/4 cup of poppy seeds
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk, yeast, and 1 teaspoon of sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the yeast becomes foamy.
2. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and add in the melted butter, remaining sugar, and salt. Mix well.
3. Slowly add the egg mixture to the yeast mixture, stirring until well combined.
4. Gradually add in the flour, stirring until the dough starts to come together.
5. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
6. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a cloth, and let it rise for 1-2 hours in a warm place.
7. Punch down the dough and knead in the raisins and walnuts.
8. Divide the dough into 3 equal parts and roll each into a long strip.
9. Braid the strips together and form into a circle, pressing the ends together to seal.
10. Place the kolach on a greased baking sheet and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
11. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
12. Brush the top of the kolach with beaten egg and sprinkle with poppy seeds.
13. Bake for 30-35 minutes, until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
14. Let the kolach cool before serving.
Enjoying the Ukrainian Christmas Kolach
The Ukrainian Christmas kolach is best served warm with a generous spread of butter or honey. It can also be enjoyed with a cup of warm tea or coffee. The bread can be stored at room temperature for a few days or frozen for later use.
In conclusion, the Ukrainian Christmas kolach is more than just a bread, it is a symbol of tradition, unity, and abundance. This holiday season, why not add this delicious and meaningful dish to your Christmas feast and start a new tradition in your family.
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