A Family's Treasured Easter Bread: Grandmother's Recipe with Raisins and Brandy.

The Tradition of Grandmother's Easter Bread

According to Novyny.live: For many families, holiday celebrations are defined by time-honored recipes passed down through generations. One such cherished dish is a grandmother's recipe for 'paska,' a rich Easter bread that has become a beloved staple in countless Ukrainian homes. This baking tradition not only enhances the festive spirit but also brings families together in the kitchen.

Ingredients and Method

To prepare the soft, enriched dough, you will need the following ingredients:

• fresh yeast — 45 g (or dry yeast — 15 g)
• flour — 3–4 tbsp
• milk — 100 ml
• butter — 150 g
• an additional 150 ml of milk
• egg — 1
• egg yolk — 1
• sugar — 150 g
• flour — 350 g
• salt — 2 g
• raisins — 150-200 g
• brandy — 30 ml
• lemon zest — from 1 lemon
• vanilla sugar — 10 g
• nutmeg — 2 g
• turmeric — 2 g
• additional flour — 100–150 g

The process begins by dissolving the yeast in warm milk, then adding sugar and flour to create a starter sponge. This mixture is left to rise. In a separate bowl, combine softened butter, the whole egg, egg yolk, sugar, and salt. Gradually incorporate the risen sponge into this mixture, reserving space for the flour. After thorough kneading, add the raisins, brandy, lemon zest, vanilla sugar, nutmeg, and turmeric.

A second knead incorporates the remaining flour, which helps form an elastic dough. Once kneaded, leave the dough to rise in a warm place. After it has doubled in size, shape it, place it in a baking tin, and let it proof again.

Bake the paska at 180°C (350°F) for 35–40 minutes. The finished bread can be decorated to taste for a festive presentation. This traditional treat will be a centerpiece of the holiday table, delighting loved ones and creating lasting memories of family gatherings.

Preparing this Easter bread is more than a culinary task; it is a vital part of Ukrainian cultural heritage. Paska symbolizes family values, unity, and traditions handed down through the ages. Such dishes play a crucial role in celebrating Easter and other family holidays, emphasizing the importance of shared moments. In Ukraine, paska is a centerpiece of the Easter basket, which is blessed in church, marking the end of Lent.