Paska Bread

Ingredients

• 2 packages active dry yeast , .25 ounce
• 0.5 cups warm water , 110 degrees F/45 degrees C
• 0.5 cups white sugar
• 3 cups warm milk
• 4 cups all-purpose flour

Instructions

1. 1

   Proof yeast in 1/2 cup warm water in a large bowl until slightly frothy, about 5 to 10 minutes.

2. 2

   Meanwhile, dissolve 1/2 cup sugar in warm milk; allow to cool to lukewarm. Once cooled, add milk mixture to yeast mixture along with 4 cups of flour. Mix well with a wooden spoon. Cover and put in a dark, warm place until the mixture is bubbly and doubled in size, about 2 hours.

3. 3

   Stir in beaten eggs, 1/2 cup sugar, 1 cup butter, salt, and lemon zest until well blended. Gradually add remaining flour, one cup at a time, to form a very soft dough.

4. 4

   Knead dough on a floured board until soft and elastic, about 10 minutes. Place dough in a greased bowl, turning to coat all sides. Cover bowl with plastic wrap and allow to rise in a warm place until doubled, about 2 hours. Punch dough down, and allow to rise again for 30 minutes.

5. 5

   Divide dough into three parts and shape into slightly rounded loaves, and place on greased baking sheets. Let rise until doubled, about 45 minutes to 1 hour. Beat 1 egg with 1 tablespoon water; brush onto loaves.

6. 6

   Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).

7. 7

   Bake in preheated oven until loaves are deep golden brown, 45 to 50 minutes. Once they are done, brush the tops with melted butter for a soft crust.