Slovak Easter Paska Bread

Instructions

1. Step 1

   Gather the ingredients.

2. Step 2

   Grease 3 (7 x 3-inch) round bread pans and set aside.

3. Step 3

   In a small saucepan, heat 2 cups milk, 1/2 cup sugar, salt, and butter over low heat until butter melts and sugar dissolves. Cool to lukewarm (no hotter than 110 F) and set aside.

4. Step 4

   Dissolve yeast and 1 tablespoon sugar in warm water placed in a mixing bowl or stand mixer bowl that has been warmed. Let proof for 5 minutes.

5. Step 5

   Add eggs, reserved milk mixture, and 4 1/2 cups of the flour. With the dough hook attachment, mix on speed 2 for 1 minute.

6. Step 6

   Continue mixing on speed 2, and add remaining flour 1/2 cup at a time and mix about 2 minutes or until dough clings to hook and cleans sides of the bowl.

7. Step 7

   Continue mixing 2 minutes longer or until dough is smooth and elastic. It will be sticky to the touch.

8. Step 8

   Place dough in greased bowl, turning to grease top. Cover and let rise in warm place about 1 to 2 hours or until doubled.

9. Step 9

   Punch down dough and divide into thirds, reserving a small piece of dough from each to make decorations.

10. Step 10

    Shape each third piece of dough into a round loaf in the prepared pans. Using reserved dough, decorate with a cross in center or braids around the edge.

11. Step 11

    Cover and let rise in warm place 1 to 2 hours or until doubled.

12. Step 12

    Pre heat oven to 350 F. Gently brush tops of risen dough with milk or beaten egg yolk.

13. Step 13

    Bake 40 minutes or until golden brown and an instant-read thermometer registers 190 F.

14. Step 14

    Remove from pans immediately and cool on wire rack.

15. Step 15

    Serve during your Easter dinner and enjoy!