Kolach (Ukrainian Christmas Bread) Recipe
A traditional Ukrainian Christmas bread, or kolach, is a slightly sweet yeast bread expertly braided and formed into a festive loaf.
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Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 350F.
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Combine yeast, sugar, and lukewarm water; let stand for 15 minutes until foamy.
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In a large bowl, beat eggs until thick, then incorporate the yeast mixture, 1/2 cup sugar, oil, and salt.
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Stir in 1/2 cup lukewarm water.
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Gradually add 4 cups of flour, mixing thoroughly and kneading until the dough is smooth.
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Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 45-60 minutes until doubled.
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Punch down the dough, then let it rise again until doubled, another 45-60 minutes.
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Turn the dough onto a floured surface, divide into three equal pieces, and braid them. Shape into an oblong loaf on a parchment-lined pan or form a circle in a greased 10-inch tube pan.
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Cover the shaped dough and let it rise in a warm place for about 30 minutes until almost doubled.
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Bake for 25 minutes, or until an instant-read thermometer registers 180F.
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Remove the bread, brush with an egg yolk beaten with 1 teaspoon water, then return to the oven and bake for 5 minutes longer until it reaches 190-200F.
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Cool completely on a wire rack after removing from the oven.