This citrus bliss Paska bread is a fresh take on a Ukrainian classic that is perfect for serving at an Easter celebration.
Paska bread is a traditional bread from Ukraine but it is also served in various eastern European countries like Georgia and Romania. This enriched bread is usually served at Easter, in fact, Paska actually translates to “Easter” in English.
When we say the bread is enriched, we mean that it contains butter, sugar, eggs, and milk that make it taste sweet and buttery.
In our version, we have added a kick of citrus in the dough with lemon and orange zest and orange blossom water to add freshness to this rich bread. The whole thing is then dressed in a lemon glaze for an extra sweet lemony flavor.
Why you will love this Paska bread recipe…
Citrus Bliss Paska Easter Bread
Equipment
- Round springform cake pan
Ingredients
Dough:
- 1 cup whole milk, warmed (110°F)
- 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
- Zest of 1 orange
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 tsp orange blossom water (or vanilla extract as a substitute)
- ½ tsp salt
- 4 – 4 ½ cups all-purpose flour
Lemon Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tbsp fresh lemon juice (adjust for desired consistency)
- Zest of 1/2 lemon
Instructions
Instruction
- In a small bowl, whisk the warm milk and 1 tbsp of sugar. Sprinkle the yeast on top and let it bloom for 5–10 minutes, until frothy.
- In a large bowl or stand mixer, whisk together eggs, melted butter, remaining sugar, orange zest, lemon zest, orange blossom water, and salt. Stir in the yeast mixture.
- Gradually add flour, 1 cup at a time, mixing after each addition. Knead until the dough is smooth and elastic, about 8 minutes in a stand mixer or 10 minutes by hand. The dough should be slightly tacky but not sticky.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let rise in a warm place for 1 1/2–2 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough and shape it into a round loaf (or divide into smaller loaves). Place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet or into a greased pan.
- Cover the dough and let it rise for another 30–45 minutes, until puffy.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 30–40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped. Let cool completely before glazing.
- In a small bowl, whisk powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth. Adjust the consistency with more lemon juice or powdered sugar as needed.
- Drizzle the lemon glaze over the cooled bread, letting it cascade beautifully down the sides. Garnish with extra citrus zest if desired.
Nutrition
Serving Suggestions
This citrus Paska bread is the perfect addition to an Easter spread, It is delicious served simply with a cup of tea or coffee.
For an extra treat, try spreading it with lemon curd for a tangy, sweet contrast that enhances its rich, buttery flavor.
Expert Tips 🧑🍳
Storage Suggestions
Paska Bread FAQs
Is Paska Russian or Ukrainian?
Paska bread is originally Ukrainian but it is also found in various Eastern European countries with different names. In Russian, it is called kulich.
What does paska mean in English?
Paska translates to Easter in English, which is when this bread is traditionally served.
What is the difference between Paska and Babka?
Both Paska and Babka are enriched breads containing milk, eggs, and sugar. Babka is usually sweeter, served year-round, and sometimes topped with icing.
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