Easter is a time for celebration, family gatherings, and, of course, delicious food.
One of the most cherished traditions during this holiday is the baking of Easter breads, with Paska being one of the most beloved and symbolic choices.
Paska bread is a soft, sweet, and rich bread, often braided or shaped into intricate forms, and it holds special significance in many cultures.
Typically enjoyed during Easter brunch or as a festive treat, Paska bread is known for its slightly sweet flavor, delicate texture, and the inclusion of ingredients like eggs, butter, and sugar, symbolizing the richness of the season.
Whether you’re preparing for an Easter feast or just looking to try something new this holiday, there are countless variations of Paska bread that can be tailored to suit every taste.
In this blog, we’ll explore 25+ unique Easter Paska bread recipes that will elevate your holiday table, offering a variety of flavors and twists on the traditional recipe.
From fruity and nutty versions to those with a zesty citrus punch, these recipes are perfect for making your Easter celebrations even more special.
So, grab your mixing bowls and get ready to bake something that will become a holiday tradition in your household.
25+ Traditional to Trendy Easter Bread Paska Recipes You’ll Love
Easter Paska bread is more than just a treat—it’s a symbol of the holiday’s joyful spirit and the perfect way to gather loved ones around the table.
Whether you’re a fan of classic Paska or enjoy experimenting with flavors, there’s a recipe in this collection to suit every taste.
From fruity versions with dried apricots and raisins to nutty variations with hazelnuts and almonds, these Paska recipes offer something for everyone.
So, this Easter, why not add a homemade Paska bread to your table? Not only will it impress your guests, but it will also fill your home with the sweet smells of holiday cheer.
Classic Easter Paska Bread Recipe
Paska is a traditional Eastern European bread enjoyed during Easter celebrations, known for its light, airy texture and slightly sweet flavor. Often flavored with citrus zest and topped with icing or sprinkles, it symbolizes renewal and the joy of Easter. This recipe follows an authentic approach, resulting in a soft, beautifully golden bread perfect for your holiday table.
- Ingredients:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup milk, warm
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup golden raisins (optional)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Icing sugar for glazing (optional)
- Instructions:
- In a small bowl, activate the yeast by dissolving it in the warm milk with a pinch of sugar. Let it sit for about 10 minutes until frothy.
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Make a well in the center and add the activated yeast, eggs, softened butter, and vanilla extract. Mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Once risen, gently punch down the dough and fold in the lemon zest and raisins, if using.
- Shape the dough into a round loaf and place it in a greased 9-inch round pan.
- Cover and let the dough rise for another hour.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush the top of the dough with a beaten egg for a golden finish.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Let the bread cool completely before glazing with icing sugar if desired.
This Classic Easter Paska Bread is the perfect addition to your holiday spread. Its fragrant citrus flavor combined with a soft, delicate crumb makes it a beloved treat. Whether enjoyed as part of a festive breakfast or served alongside Easter dinner, this recipe captures the essence of Easter celebrations and is sure to become a family favorite for years to come.
Lemon-Infused Paska Easter Bread
This Lemon-Infused Paska Bread takes the classic Easter bread to a new level with the addition of fresh lemon juice and zest, creating a zesty, aromatic loaf. With a soft texture and a refreshing citrus twist, this version is an excellent choice for those who enjoy bright, tangy flavors paired with their holiday bread.
- Ingredients:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 2 teaspoons lemon zest
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Powdered sugar for icing
- Instructions:
- In a small bowl, warm the milk and add the yeast and a tablespoon of sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, remaining sugar, salt, and lemon zest.
- Add the activated yeast mixture, eggs, butter, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Mix to form a sticky dough.
- Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover with a towel. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough and shape it into a round loaf. Place it in a greased 9-inch pan.
- Cover the dough and let it rise again for about 1 hour.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush the top of the dough with a beaten egg.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Cool on a wire rack. Optionally, glaze with a simple powdered sugar icing for a sweet finish.
This Lemon-Infused Paska Easter Bread is the perfect balance of sweet and tart, with a refreshing citrus flavor that complements the richness of the traditional bread. The subtle lemon scent fills your kitchen as it bakes, and each slice offers a delightful burst of freshness. Ideal for an Easter brunch or as a gift for loved ones, this Paska bread is sure to be a showstopper at your holiday table.
Paska Bread with Almond Glaze
This Paska Bread with Almond Glaze is a luxurious variation of the traditional Easter bread, featuring a rich, nutty almond glaze that adds a sweet, crunchy finish to the soft, fluffy bread. The perfect combination of flavors and textures makes this bread an elegant choice for special occasions.
- Ingredients:
- 4 cups bread flour
- 1/2 cup warm milk
- 2 teaspoons dry active yeast
- 1/3 cup sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 large eggs
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup chopped almonds (optional)
- For the glaze:
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- Chopped almonds for topping
- Instructions:
- In a bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and a pinch of sugar. Stir and let sit for 5-10 minutes until the yeast blooms.
- In a large bowl, combine the bread flour, sugar, and salt. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture, eggs, melted butter, almond extract, and vanilla extract.
- Mix until a dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
- Transfer the dough to a greased bowl and cover with a towel. Allow it to rise for 1-2 hours until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough and shape it into a round loaf. Place the dough in a greased 9-inch round pan.
- Let the dough rise for another hour.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush the top of the dough with an egg wash.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden and a toothpick comes out clean when inserted.
- For the glaze, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and almond extract. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled bread and sprinkle with chopped almonds.
This Paska Bread with Almond Glaze is a sophisticated take on a classic Easter treat. The rich almond flavor in the glaze enhances the light, airy bread, adding both sweetness and texture. Whether served at an Easter dinner or as a special treat for family and friends, this bread is an indulgent way to celebrate the season and make lasting memories. The contrast between the soft bread and crunchy almond topping will make it a standout at any Easter gathering.
Raisin & Cinnamon Paska Easter Bread
This Raisin & Cinnamon Paska Easter Bread combines the traditional fluffy, slightly sweet bread with warm spices and juicy raisins. The cinnamon infuses the dough with a comforting aroma, while the raisins add a burst of sweetness with every bite. This variant is perfect for those who enjoy spiced bread that pairs wonderfully with Easter brunch or as a special breakfast treat.
- Ingredients:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup milk, warm
- 3 large eggs
- 1/4 cup butter, softened
- 1 cup raisins
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Instructions:
- Dissolve the yeast in warm milk with a pinch of sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, and cinnamon.
- Add the yeast mixture, eggs, softened butter, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Stir until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Gently fold in the raisins, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise for 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough and shape it into a round loaf. Place it in a greased 9-inch pan.
- Let the dough rise for an additional 30 minutes to 1 hour.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush the top of the dough with a beaten egg for a glossy finish.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, until golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Allow the bread to cool before serving.
The Raisin & Cinnamon Paska Easter Bread brings an inviting warmth to your holiday table with its fragrant cinnamon and sweet raisins. The soft, fluffy texture of the bread complements the spices, making each bite comforting and satisfying. Perfect for Easter morning or served alongside your favorite holiday dishes, this bread adds a festive touch to any gathering and will be a hit with anyone who enjoys the sweetness of traditional Easter treats.
Honey-Orange Paska Bread
This Honey-Orange Paska Bread is a delightful variation of the traditional Easter loaf, bringing in the sweetness of honey and the refreshing zest of orange. The citrus flavor combines beautifully with the honey’s natural sweetness, creating a uniquely flavorful bread that’s both tender and aromatic. This recipe is ideal for those looking to bring a burst of sunshine to their Easter celebrations.
- Ingredients:
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/2 cup warm milk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- Zest of 1 orange
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon orange extract
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Instructions:
- In a small bowl, activate the yeast by dissolving it in warm milk with a pinch of honey. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, remaining honey, salt, and orange zest.
- Add the yeast mixture, eggs, butter, and orange extract. Mix well until a dough begins to form.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover with a towel. Let it rise for 1-2 hours, or until it doubles in size.
- Punch down the dough, shape it into a round loaf, and place it in a greased 9-inch round pan.
- Allow the dough to rise for another 30 minutes to 1 hour.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush the top of the dough with a beaten egg for a golden finish.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the bread is golden and cooked through.
- Cool completely before slicing and serving.
This Honey-Orange Paska Bread is a fresh, fragrant twist on a classic recipe. The honey brings out a subtle sweetness, while the orange zest adds a zesty brightness that perfectly complements the soft, rich texture of the bread. This loaf will add a cheerful and aromatic note to your Easter celebrations, making it a delightful centerpiece for your holiday brunch or dinner. The sweet, citrusy flavor pairs beautifully with both savory and sweet Easter dishes, making it a versatile treat for any gathering.
Chocolate Chip Paska Bread
For chocolate lovers, this Chocolate Chip Paska Bread is a delightful variation that blends the traditional Easter bread with the indulgence of chocolate chips. The result is a moist, slightly sweet bread with pockets of melted chocolate in every slice. This recipe is perfect for those looking for a fun, festive way to enjoy Easter bread with a modern twist.
- Ingredients:
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup milk, warm
- 3 large eggs
- 1/4 cup butter, softened
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Instructions:
- In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm milk with a pinch of sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes, until frothy.
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and yeast mixture. Add the eggs, butter, and vanilla extract. Stir until a dough begins to form.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Gently fold in the chocolate chips, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a towel, and let it rise for about 1-2 hours until it doubles in size.
- Punch down the dough and shape it into a round loaf. Place it in a greased 9-inch round pan.
- Let the dough rise for another hour.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush the top of the dough with a beaten egg for a shiny, golden finish.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool completely before slicing.
This Chocolate Chip Paska Bread is a rich, indulgent twist on the traditional Easter bread. The soft, buttery dough and the burst of chocolate in every bite make it a perfect treat for Easter or any special occasion. Whether served for dessert or as an unexpected breakfast bread, this chocolate-filled version of Paska is sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike, adding a fun, sweet touch to your holiday celebrations.
Apricot & Almond Paska Easter Bread
This Apricot & Almond Paska Easter Bread is a fragrant, flavorful twist on the classic recipe. The combination of dried apricots and toasted almonds creates a rich, slightly tangy flavor profile that complements the soft, sweet dough. Perfect for those who love a fruit-filled bread with a little crunch, this version of Paska offers a lovely variation for Easter morning or any festive occasion.
- Ingredients:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup warm milk
- 3 large eggs
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup dried apricots, chopped
- 1/2 cup slivered almonds, toasted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Instructions:
- Activate the yeast by dissolving it in warm milk with a pinch of sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, and the yeast mixture.
- Add the eggs, butter, vanilla extract, and almond extract to the flour mixture. Stir until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Gently fold in the chopped apricots and toasted almonds, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough, shape it into a round loaf, and place it in a greased 9-inch round pan.
- Let the dough rise again for 30-60 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush the top of the loaf with a beaten egg for a glossy finish.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let the bread cool completely before slicing.
The Apricot & Almond Paska Easter Bread is an elegant and delightful version of the traditional loaf. The sweet apricots and crunchy almonds give this bread a sophisticated taste that pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. The rich flavors and texture make it perfect for special occasions or as a gift to share with loved ones during Easter celebrations. This variation provides a delicious contrast to more traditional, simpler Easter breads.
Coconut & Lemon Paska Easter Bread
The Coconut & Lemon Paska Easter Bread brings a tropical flair to the traditional recipe. The sweet, slightly chewy coconut and the bright, zesty lemon combine for a refreshing flavor that’s perfect for spring celebrations. This variation adds a citrusy twist, while the coconut provides a subtle richness, making it a perfect choice for anyone who loves fruity, aromatic bread.
- Ingredients:
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup warm milk
- 3 large eggs
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- Zest of 2 lemons
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Instructions:
- Dissolve the yeast in warm milk with a pinch of sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy.
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt.
- Add the yeast mixture, eggs, butter, coconut, and lemon zest to the dry ingredients. Stir until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a towel, and let it rise for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough and shape it into a round loaf. Place it in a greased 9-inch round pan.
- Let the dough rise for another hour or until it has doubled in size.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush the top of the dough with a beaten egg for a glossy finish.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let the bread cool before slicing.
The Coconut & Lemon Paska Easter Bread is a refreshing and aromatic twist on the traditional Paska. The combination of bright lemon and sweet coconut creates a vibrant and inviting flavor profile that’s perfect for springtime celebrations. This bread pairs beautifully with a fresh fruit salad or as a side dish for Easter brunch. The tropical flavors are sure to brighten up any Easter gathering, making this bread a unique and delightful addition to your holiday spread.
Poppy Seed & Honey Paska Easter Bread
This Poppy Seed & Honey Paska Easter Bread offers a unique blend of flavors, balancing the rich sweetness of honey with the subtle crunch of poppy seeds. It’s a lovely way to celebrate Easter with its tender texture and visually striking appearance. The honey enhances the bread’s natural sweetness, while the poppy seeds add a delightful crunch, making this a perfect choice for an Easter breakfast or brunch.
- Ingredients:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup warm milk
- 3 large eggs
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup poppy seeds
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Instructions:
- In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm milk with a pinch of honey. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and poppy seeds.
- Add the yeast mixture, eggs, butter, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Stir until the dough begins to come together.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough, shape it into a round loaf, and place it in a greased 9-inch round pan.
- Let the dough rise for another 30 minutes to 1 hour.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush the top of the dough with a beaten egg for a shiny finish.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the bread is golden and cooked through.
- Cool before slicing and serving.
The Poppy Seed & Honey Paska Easter Bread is a beautifully balanced recipe that combines the light sweetness of honey with the delightful crunch of poppy seeds. Its slightly sweet flavor and texture make it a perfect companion for savory dishes or a sweet spread like butter or jam. This recipe adds a lovely texture and taste to your Easter table, providing a sophisticated yet simple bread that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether served at breakfast or as a snack, it will surely impress your guests.
Raisin & Spice Paska Easter Bread
Raisin & Spice Paska Easter Bread brings a warm, comforting flavor to the traditional Easter bread with a perfect balance of cinnamon, nutmeg, and raisins. The mix of sweet dried raisins and aromatic spices makes it a perfect bread for a cozy Easter brunch or as an afternoon treat with tea. This flavorful bread has a beautiful crumb and is a great addition to any holiday table.
- Ingredients:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup warm milk
- 3 large eggs
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup raisins
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Instructions:
- In a small bowl, dissolve yeast in warm milk with a pinch of sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Add the yeast mixture, eggs, butter, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients and stir to form a dough.
- Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Add the raisins into the dough and knead again until evenly distributed.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough and shape it into a round loaf. Place it into a greased 9-inch round pan.
- Let the dough rise for 45-60 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush the top of the dough with a beaten egg for a shiny finish.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped.
- Let it cool before slicing.
This Raisin & Spice Paska Easter Bread is a fragrant and flavorful variation that brings the comforting warmth of cinnamon and nutmeg to the table. The sweet raisins complement the spiced dough, creating a deliciously soft and fluffy texture. Ideal for breakfast or brunch, it pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea. This bread is a great addition to your Easter spread, adding both flavor and a delightful aroma to your holiday celebrations.
Orange & Walnut Paska Easter Bread
The Orange & Walnut Paska Easter Bread is a bright and nutty variation that combines the fresh, zesty flavor of orange with the rich crunch of toasted walnuts. This version of Paska offers a unique flavor combination that feels both refreshing and indulgent, making it a perfect addition to your Easter feast. The walnuts add texture, while the citrusy orange elevates the bread to something truly special.
- Ingredients:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup warm milk
- 3 large eggs
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup toasted walnuts, chopped
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Instructions:
- Dissolve the yeast in warm milk with a pinch of sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and orange zest.
- Add the yeast mixture, eggs, butter, orange juice, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients and stir to form a dough.
- Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 8-10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
- Gently fold in the chopped walnuts and knead until evenly distributed.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough and shape it into a round loaf. Place it in a greased 9-inch round pan.
- Let the dough rise for 45-60 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush the top with a beaten egg for a glossy finish.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let the bread cool before slicing.
The Orange & Walnut Paska Easter Bread offers a fresh, citrusy twist with the addition of toasted walnuts, which provide a satisfying crunch. The combination of orange zest and juice infuses the bread with a refreshing brightness that makes it stand out. Perfect for any Easter brunch, this bread is a wonderful way to bring the flavors of spring to your celebration. It also pairs beautifully with soft cheeses or a light honey glaze for added sweetness.
Cherry & Almond Paska Easter Bread
The Cherry & Almond Paska Easter Bread combines the tart sweetness of dried cherries with the delicate flavor of almond extract. This bread has a gorgeous, light crumb with a slightly chewy texture from the cherries, and the toasted almonds add a satisfying crunch. A beautiful and flavorful addition to your Easter celebration, this bread also makes for a lovely gift during the holiday season.
- Ingredients:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup warm milk
- 3 large eggs
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup dried cherries, chopped
- 1/2 cup slivered almonds, toasted
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Instructions:
- Dissolve yeast in warm milk with a pinch of sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and sugar.
- Add the yeast mixture, eggs, butter, and almond extract to the dry ingredients and stir to form a dough.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
- Gently fold in the chopped cherries and toasted almonds, then knead the dough to ensure they are evenly distributed.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let it rise for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough and shape it into a round loaf. Place it in a greased 9-inch round pan.
- Let it rise for 45-60 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush the top with a beaten egg for a glossy finish.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let it cool before slicing.
The Cherry & Almond Paska Easter Bread is a visually stunning and flavorful variation that combines the sweetness of cherries with the delicate flavor of almonds. The juicy cherries provide a lovely burst of flavor, while the toasted almonds add a satisfying texture. This bread is a great way to elevate your Easter celebration with something both delicious and unique, offering a delightful balance of sweet and nutty flavors. Perfect for serving with jam or a soft cheese, this bread is sure to become a new holiday favorite.
Lemon & Poppy Seed Paska Easter Bread
Lemon & Poppy Seed Paska Easter Bread is a fragrant and zesty twist on the classic recipe, with the refreshing taste of lemon and the subtle crunch of poppy seeds. This bright and light bread is perfect for spring celebrations, offering a burst of citrusy freshness that pairs wonderfully with any Easter meal. The addition of poppy seeds not only adds a delightful crunch but also enhances the flavor with its nutty undertones.
- Ingredients:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup warm milk
- 3 large eggs
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons poppy seeds
- 1 teaspoon lemon extract (optional)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Instructions:
- In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm milk with a pinch of sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and sugar. Add lemon zest and poppy seeds, and mix well.
- Add the yeast mixture, eggs, butter, and lemon extract (if using) to the dry ingredients and stir until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 8-10 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough and shape it into a round loaf. Place it in a greased 9-inch round pan.
- Allow the dough to rise for 45-60 minutes until it has puffed up.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush the top of the dough with a beaten egg for a glossy finish.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Allow the bread to cool before slicing.
Lemon & Poppy Seed Paska Easter Bread is the perfect springtime bread, offering a tangy lemon flavor and a delightful crunch from the poppy seeds. The bread is soft and tender with just the right amount of citrusy zest, making it an ideal addition to your Easter breakfast or brunch. Whether enjoyed plain, toasted with butter, or as part of a festive spread, this bread is sure to impress with its light and fresh flavors, perfect for welcoming the new season.
Apricot & Hazelnut Paska Easter Bread
Apricot & Hazelnut Paska Easter Bread brings together the sweet, tangy flavor of dried apricots and the rich, earthy taste of hazelnuts. The apricots infuse the bread with a subtle tartness that balances beautifully with the creamy sweetness of the dough. The toasted hazelnuts add a lovely crunch and a depth of flavor that elevates the classic Paska bread into something extraordinary, perfect for an Easter celebration.
- Ingredients:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup warm milk
- 3 large eggs
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup dried apricots, chopped
- 1/2 cup toasted hazelnuts, chopped
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Instructions:
- In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm milk with a pinch of sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- In a large bowl, combine the flour and sugar.
- Add the yeast mixture, eggs, butter, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients, stirring to form a dough.
- Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 8-10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
- Fold in the chopped apricots and toasted hazelnuts, kneading gently to incorporate them.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let it rise for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough and shape it into a round loaf. Place it in a greased 9-inch round pan.
- Let the dough rise for another 45-60 minutes until it has doubled in size.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush the top with a beaten egg to give the bread a golden finish.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the bread cool before slicing.
The Apricot & Hazelnut Paska Easter Bread offers a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors, with the chewy apricots and crunchy hazelnuts making each bite interesting and satisfying. The bread is light and fluffy with a complex flavor profile, making it a great choice for those looking for a unique twist on traditional Easter bread. Serve it with a dollop of cream cheese or fruit preserves, or simply enjoy it on its own for a festive, flavorful treat.
Carrot & Coconut Paska Easter Bread
Carrot & Coconut Paska Easter Bread is a sweet and tropical take on the classic Paska. Grated carrots add natural sweetness and moisture to the dough, while shredded coconut infuses the bread with a delightful texture and exotic flavor. This bright and flavorful bread is perfect for those looking to add a little extra sweetness to their Easter table, making it both visually stunning and delicious.
- Ingredients:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup warm milk
- 3 large eggs
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup grated carrots
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Instructions:
- In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm milk with a pinch of sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- In a large bowl, combine the flour and sugar.
- Add the yeast mixture, eggs, butter, vanilla extract, grated carrots, and shredded coconut to the dry ingredients and stir to form a dough.
- Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a towel, and let it rise for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough and shape it into a round loaf. Place it in a greased 9-inch round pan.
- Let the dough rise for another 45-60 minutes until doubled in size.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush the top of the dough with a beaten egg for a shiny finish.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the bread to cool before slicing.
Carrot & Coconut Paska Easter Bread offers a unique and delicious flavor combination, with the natural sweetness of carrots and the tropical flavor of coconut. The bread is incredibly moist and tender, thanks to the grated carrots, while the coconut adds a wonderful texture and a hint of sweetness. This is an excellent bread to serve during Easter brunch, or as a flavorful snack throughout the holiday season. It’s a delightful treat that everyone will enjoy, and it pairs wonderfully with a light glaze or a spread of cream cheese.
Note: More recipes are coming soon!