Kulich Russian Easter Bread with Candied Fruits and Nuts Recipe is so delicious, The recipe was quick an d easy and tasted fantastic. Serve for your family and friends, from ABS-CBN Food Entertainmnet, From Jill Sandique

Makes 1 bread

Ingredients:

For tne sponge:

3 tablespoons dry active yeast

1 tablespoon sugar

1 1/2 cups lukewarm water

For the dough:

3 eggs

3 egg yolks

1/2 cup powdered milk

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

zest of 1 lemon

1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

large pinch of saffron

soaked in 1 tablespoon water, optional

8 - 9 1/2 cups sifted all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon salt

1 cup butter, softened

1 cup raisins, plumped in hot water

1/2 cup slivered almonds

1/3 cup candied fruits or peel

more candied or glazed fruits, for garnish

Method:

Prepare the sponge by combining the yeast, sugar and water. Whisk well. Allow to rise for 10 to 15 minutes or until bubbly.

Add eggs, egg yolks, milk, vanilla, lemon zest, nutmeg and soaked saffron, if desired. Gradually add the flour, then salt and butter. Mix well. Knead until smooth and elastic.

Add raisins, almonds and candied fruits or peel. Form into a ball. Place in an oiled bowl and cover with plastic wrap. Allow to rise in a warm, draft-free area until double in bulk, about 1 to 1 1/2 hours.

Meanwhile, grease a tall milk can with butter or cooking oil. Set aside.

Invert dough onto a floured surface. Punch gently to relax the dough. Shape dough into a ball and transfer to the greased milk can. Proof (let the shaped dough rise) till double.

Bake at 300°F (140°C) for 30 minutes. Increase oven temperature to 325°F (163°C) and bake for another 40 to 45 minutes or until done. Cool 20 minutes then remove from can. Cool completely.

Glaze with water icing.

For water icing:

1 cup sifted confectioners’ sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla or lemon juice

1 to 2 teaspoons water

In a bowl, whisk together all ingredients until smooth. Use immediately.