Kulich: A Sacred Russian Easter Tradition

 Kulich, the towering cylindrical bread crowned with snow-white icing and colorful sprinkles, stands as one of the most cherished symbols of Russian Easter celebrations. This sweet, fruit-studded bread has been gracing Easter tables across Eastern Europe for centuries, carrying deep cultural and religious significance.

Historical Background

Traditionally blessed in Orthodox churches on Easter Saturday, kulich represents the body of Christ in Russian Orthodox Easter celebrations. Its distinctive tall shape symbolizes the dome of a church, while the white icing represents the divine light of the resurrection. Families typically keep kulich on their Easter table throughout Bright Week, the seven days following Easter Sunday.

Ingredients

For the Bread:

• 4 cups (500g) all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (240ml) warm milk
• 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 cup (200g) sugar
• 4 large eggs
• ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (150g) mixed dried fruits (raisins, candied citrus peel)
• ¼ cup (35g) blanched almonds, chopped
• 1 tablespoon rum or brandy (optional)

For the Icing:

• 2 cups (240g) powdered sugar
• 3-4 tablespoons lemon juice
• Colorful sprinkles for decoration

Special Equipment

• 2-pound coffee tin or traditional kulich mold
• Parchment paper
• Stand mixer (recommended)
• Candy thermometer (optional)

Instructions

Preparing the Dough

1. Begin by activating the yeast. Warm the milk to 110°F (43°C) and combine with 1 tablespoon of sugar and the yeast in a bowl. Let stand for 10 minutes until foamy.
2. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the dough hook, combine 2 cups of flour with the yeast mixture. Cover and let rest in a warm place for 30 minutes. This is your sponge.
3. Add the remaining flour, sugar, eggs (one at a time), softened butter, vanilla, and salt to the sponge. Mix on medium speed for 8-10 minutes until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
4. In a separate bowl, combine the dried fruits and almonds with the rum or brandy if using. Fold these into the dough by hand.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1.5 hours or until doubled in size.

Shaping and Baking

1. Prepare your baking mold by thoroughly greasing it and lining it with parchment paper. The paper should extend 2-3 inches above the rim.
2. Punch down the dough and shape it into a cylinder. Place it in the prepared mold, filling no more than half the height.
3. Cover and let rise again for about 1 hour, or until the dough reaches about 2/3 of the mold's height.
4. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
5. Bake for 45-60 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted in the center comes out clean. The top should be deep golden brown.
6. Cool in the mold for 10 minutes, then remove and cool completely on a wire rack.

Decorating

1. Prepare the icing by whisking together powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth.
2. Once the kulich is completely cool, pour the icing over the top, allowing it to drip down the sides slightly.
3. Immediately decorate with colorful sprinkles before the icing sets.

Tips for Success

• Temperature matters: All ingredients should be at room temperature before starting.
• Don't rush the rises: Proper fermentation develops flavor and texture.
• Test for doneness: The internal temperature should reach 190°F (88°C).
• Soak dried fruits: For extra moisture, soak the dried fruits in warm water or rum for 30 minutes before adding to the dough.

Storage

Kulich will keep for up to 5 days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months before icing.

Cultural Notes

In Russian homes, kulich is traditionally served alongside paskha (a sweet cheese spread) and decorated eggs. It's customary to slice the kulich horizontally and serve it in rounds, maintaining its cylindrical appearance throughout the Easter celebration.

Remember that making kulich is not just about following a recipe – it's about participating in a centuries-old tradition that brings families together during one of the most important Orthodox Christian celebrations of the year.