Breakfast
ShareEaster Bread
3h 15min
12 servings
Balkan Easter Bread, or Uskršnja Pogača, is a traditional sweet bread enjoyed during the Easter holiday. This rich and flavorful bread is made with a soft, buttery dough infused with aromatic spices and studded with raisins. The bread is often braided or shaped into decorative rounds, symbolizing the crown of thorns worn by Jesus Christ. Served as a centerpiece on the Easter table, this delightful bread is a cherished part of Balkan Easter celebrations.
Nutrition Facts
Disclaimer: The nutritional information provided is estimated and may vary based on portion size and preparation methods.
Facts
Quantity
Fiber
Sugar
2 g
16 g
Allergen Content
Based on your allergy profile, please take note of the following possible allergens:
Eggs
Milk
Wheat
Ingredients
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Steps
Read instruction and ready to cook
Activate yeast
In a small bowl, mix together 1/2 cup of warm milk, 1 tablespoon of sugar, and the active dry yeast. Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes or until it becomes foamy.
Mix dry ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, remaining sugar, salt, and cinnamon.
Melt butter
In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
Beat eggs
In a separate bowl, beat the eggs until well combined.
Combine wet ingredients
Add the melted butter, beaten eggs, vanilla extract, and the remaining 1/2 cup of milk to the yeast mixture. Stir until combined.
Mix dough
Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring with a wooden spoon until a soft dough forms.
Knead dough
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes or until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
Add raisins
Gently fold the raisins into the dough, distributing them evenly.
Let dough rise
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.
Shape bread
Punch down the risen dough and divide it into three equal parts. Roll each part into a long rope and braid the ropes together. Place the braided loaf on a greased baking sheet.
Let bread rise again
Cover the shaped bread with a clean towel and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes.
Preheat oven
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Bake bread
Bake the Easter bread for 40-45 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool and serve
Remove the Balkan Easter Bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.
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