Bulgarian Christmas Bread (Koledna Pitka)
Bulgarian Christmas bread, known as Koledna Pitka, is a festive loaf traditionally enjoyed during Christmas Eve and the holiday season.
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Instructions
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Preheat oven to 375 F.
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Dissolve yeast in water, then stir in sugar and 2 tablespoons flour.
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Transfer yeast mixture to a stand mixer; add remaining flour, oil/butter, 3 whole eggs, 1 egg white, and salt.
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Knead dough until smooth and pliable, adjusting consistency with warm water or flour as needed.
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Divide dough into 7 equal balls.
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Place one dough ball in the center of a greased 12-inch baking tray; cover with greased plastic wrap.
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Roll remaining balls into 10-inch circles, then cut each into 8 triangular pieces.
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Brush triangles with oil or melted butter.
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Stack 3 brushed triangles, then twist to form a cone. Repeat to make 16 cones.
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Arrange cones around the center dough ball, wide side out. Cover and let rise until almost doubled.
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Slash an 'X' into the risen center dough ball.
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Combine remaining egg yolk with 1 tablespoon water; brush over bread.
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Bake for 15 minutes, then loosely cover with foil.
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Continue baking for 15 minutes, or until an instant-read thermometer reads 190 F.
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Cool completely on a wire rack.
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To serve, pull off the cones.