Ukrainian Christmas Kolach
Celebrate the warmth and spirit of the holidays with Ukrainian Christmas Kolach, a beautifully braided bread that’s as symbolic as it is delicious. This golden loaf, traditionally served during Christmas festivities, features a soft, slightly sweet dough enriched with whole milk, eggs, and butter for a tender crumb. Crafted by braiding three ropes of dough into an elegant ring, this recipe highlights both artistry and tradition. Its shiny, golden crust, achieved with an egg wash, makes it a stunning centerpiece for your holiday table. Perfect for sharing, this festive bread pairs wonderfully with savory dishes or can be enjoyed on its own as a slightly sweet treat. Whether you’re honoring heritage or discovering a new holiday tradition, Ukrainian Christmas Kolach will surely become a cherished part of your celebration.
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Ingredients
- 6 cups All-purpose flour
- 1 cup Granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons Salt
- 2.25 teaspoons Active dry yeast
- 1.5 cups Whole milk
- 0.5 cup Unsalted butter
- 3 whole Large eggs
- 0.25 cup Warm water
- 1 tablespoon Vegetable oil (for greasing)
- 1 whole Egg yolk (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon Water (for egg wash)
Directions
Step 1
In a small bowl, combine the warm water and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes, until it becomes frothy.
Step 2
In a medium saucepan over low heat, warm the milk and butter until the butter melts. Remove from heat and let it cool to lukewarm.
Step 3
In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 cups of flour, sugar, and salt. Stir gently to mix the dry ingredients.
Step 4
Add the yeast mixture, lukewarm milk and butter, and eggs to the dry ingredients. Beat well with a wooden spoon or a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment.
Step 5
Gradually add the remaining flour, one cup at a time, until a soft dough forms and pulls away from the sides of the bowl. It should be slightly sticky but manageable.
Step 6
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
Step 7
Lightly grease a large bowl with vegetable oil. Place the dough in the bowl, turning it once to coat the top. Cover with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
Step 8
Punch down the dough and divide it into three equal portions. Roll each portion into long ropes of equal length (about 18 inches). Braid the ropes together loosely, pinching the ends to seal.
Step 9
Form the braided dough into a circle or ring and pinch the ends together to close the loop. Place the bread on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Step 10
Cover the bread lightly with a kitchen towel and let it rise for another 30-40 minutes, until puffy.
Step 11
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolk and water. Gently brush this egg wash over the surface of the bread for a shiny, golden finish.
Step 12
Bake the kolach in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until it is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Step 13
Remove from the oven and let the bread cool on a wire rack before serving. Serve as part of your holiday feast or enjoy as a sweet, festive treat!
Nutrition Facts
| Serving size | 1543.7 grams (1543.7g) |
|---|
| Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|
| Calories | 3954 |
| Total Fat 47.60g | 61% |
| Saturated Fat 14.30g | 72% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat 0.40g | |
| Cholesterol 602mg | 201% |
| Sodium 5085mg | 221% |
| Total Carbohydrate 772.10g | 281% |
| Dietary Fiber 21.00g | 75% |
| Total Sugars 219.20g | |
| Protein 107.10g | 214% |
| Vitamin D 281IU | 1405% |
| Calcium 634mg | 49% |
| Iron 37mg | 204% |
| Potassium 1671mg | 36% |
Source of Calories