Paska (Slovak Easter Bread)

Updated at: Thu, 17 Aug 2023 02:36:31 GMT

Step 1

activate the yeast in 1/4 c of water that’s between 110°F and 115°F

Step 2

use a stand mixer or wooden spoon to mix and knead the dough ingredients until it becomes a bal (smooth). should be pliable, not sticky and bounce back when its poked. if it wont mix together while you knead it, add the extra egg yolk to help bind it. don’t over mix- you don’t really do it for more than 10 minutes

Step 3

set in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a slightly damp towel and allow it to rise for 60-90 minutes.

Step 4

turn out dough onto a lightly floured surface. pull off about a quarter of the ball and shape the rest into a smooth ball and place it into the center of a 9 in. greased pan.

Step 5

divide reserved quarter into 3 equal pieces and roll each into a strand about 18”-20”. use the three strands to create one long braid

Step 6

cut the braid in half, then place it in a cross shaper (like a plus sign) on top of the ball or wrap the braid in one length around the inside edge of the pan.

Step 7

cover with a slightly damp towel and let rise for about 45 minutes or until it doubles in size.

Step 8

near the end of the rising time, preheat the oven to 350°F and place the rack in the lower middle

Step 9

when the bread has rise, make the topping

Step 10

beat the egg and water with a fork and gently brush it over the loaf. sprinkle the sugar, or sprinkles, on top

Step 11

bake for 35-40 minutes until it reaches a rich golden brown color

Step 12

remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool completely before serving

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