When it comes to delightful Easter treats, look no further than a traditional Slavic favorite – Kulich Cake. This sweet, fluffy bread-like cake is a staple in many Eastern European households during the holiday season. The warm spices and plump raisins make it a cozy addition to any Easter brunch or dessert table. Let’s dive into how you can create this festive and delicious Kulich Cake in your own kitchen.
Title: Kulich Cake
Ingredients:
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup warm milk
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup golden raisins
– Zest of 1 lemon
– Zest of 1 orange
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in the warm milk with a pinch of sugar. Let it sit for about 10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Stir in the yeast mixture, lemon zest, orange zest, and vanilla extract until well combined.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, cardamom, and nutmeg.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms. The dough will be slightly sticky.
7. Gently fold in the golden raisins until evenly distributed.
8. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1.5-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
9. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour a tall cylindrical mold or a bundt pan.
10. Transfer the risen dough into the prepared pan, filling it about halfway. Cover with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
11. Bake the Kulich Cake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
12. Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serve your Kulich Cake sliced and enjoyed with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful Easter treat that will surely impress your family and friends. Feel free to dust the cake with powdered sugar or drizzle with a simple icing for an extra touch of sweetness. This recipe is perfect for embracing the spirit of Easter with a touch of Slavic tradition. Enjoy the warm, aromatic flavors of this beautiful Kulich Cake and make it a part of your holiday celebrations!
