Alexandrian Easter Kulich with an Overnight Sponge
Rich Easter bread with a milk-and-egg sponge, vanilla and raisins.
Alexandrian kulich is an enriched holiday bread traditionally built around a long milk-and-egg ferment. This streamlined version gives the sponge an overnight rise in the refrigerator, then finishes the dough with flour, butter and raisins. Whisk milk, eggs, sugar and yeast. Cover and refrigerate 8 to 12 hours. Bring sponge to room temperature. Mix in butter, vanilla, flour and salt; knead until elastic. Knead in raisins. Cover and rise until doubled, about 1 to 2 hours. Divide dough among greased tall molds, filling halfway. Cover and proof until nearly doubled. Heat oven to 175°C (350°F). Bake 35 to 45 minutes until golden and centre reaches 88°C (190°F). Cool fully.
Recipe card
Alexandrian Easter Kulich with an Overnight Sponge
Equipment: Knife, cutting board, mixing bowl and suitable pan
Ingredients
Instructions
Make sponge
Whisk milk, eggs, sugar and yeast. Cover and refrigerate 8 to 12 hours.
Finish dough
Bring sponge to room temperature. Mix in butter, vanilla, flour and salt; knead until elastic. Knead in raisins.
First rise
Cover and rise until doubled, about 1 to 2 hours.
Shape
Divide dough among greased tall molds, filling halfway. Cover and proof until nearly doubled. Heat oven to 175°C (350°F).
Bake
Bake 35 to 45 minutes until golden and centre reaches 88°C (190°F). Cool fully.
How to tell when it is ready
Centre reaches about 88°C (190°F); loaf is golden and set.
Tips
- Prepare and measure ingredients before cooking.
- Cut ingredients into even pieces.
- Taste and adjust seasoning near the end.
- Cool leftovers promptly and refrigerate covered.
Troubleshooting
- If the dish is too dry, add a little liquid gradually.
- If browning too quickly, reduce the heat.
Substitutions
- Use a suitable neutral oil if needed.
- Choose vegetable broth for a vegetarian version where appropriate.
Variations
- Adjust herbs or spices to taste.
- Add a squeeze of lemon for brightness.
Serving suggestions
- Serve as part of a balanced meal.
- Pair with a crisp green salad.
- Offer fresh herbs at the table.
- Serve with bread or a suitable grain.
Make ahead
Measure ingredients ahead; refrigerate perishable components and cook shortly before serving.
Storage
Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours and use within 3 days.
Food safety
Contains wheat, milk and egg. Refrigerate the overnight sponge.
Frequently asked questions
Can I prepare this ahead?
Prepare components ahead and refrigerate promptly.
How should I store alexandrian easter kulich?
Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours and use within 3 days.
Serve promptly and refrigerate leftovers safely.
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