Traditional Russian Kulich

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Traditional Russian Kulich.

1. Step 1

   Begin by combining 1/4 teaspoon of white sugar and yeast in a large bowl with warm milk, allowing the mixture to sit undisturbed until it becomes foamy, which should take about 10 minutes.

2. Step 2

   Next, incorporate 1 ½ cups of flour into the yeast mixture, stirring until fully blended.

3. Step 3

   Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and place it in a warm spot to rise until it doubles in size, roughly one hour.

4. Step 4

   Meanwhile, in a separate bowl, use an electric mixer on medium speed to beat 4 egg yolks with the remaining white sugar until the mixture is thick and pale, taking about 2 to 3 minutes.

5. Step 5

   Add in the brandy and salt, mixing well.

6. Step 6

   Once the yeast mixture has risen, gently stir it to deflate, then fold in the yolk mixture along with melted butter until combined.

7. Step 7

   In another bowl, whip 3 egg whites until soft peaks form, then carefully fold them into the batter.

8. Step 8

   Gradually mix in the remaining 2 ½ cups of flour, cover the bowl, and let it rise again in a warm area until it doubles in size, which will take about another hour.

9. Step 9

   After the dough has risen, deflate it once more and gently incorporate the ground almonds and raisins.

10. Step 10

    Prepare 4 coffee cans by greasing the insides with butter, lining the bottoms with parchment or wax paper, and dusting them with flour, tapping out any excess.

11. Step 11

    Divide the dough into 4 equal portions, placing each portion into a prepared can.

12. Step 12

    Cover the cans with a towel and allow the dough to rise until it reaches about 1/2 inch from the rim, approximately one hour.

13. Step 13

    Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

14. Step 14

    In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining egg yolk and a splash of water, then lightly brush this mixture over the tops of the dough in the cans.

15. Step 15

    Bake the loaves in the preheated oven until the tops are a beautiful golden brown, which should take about 35 to 40 minutes.

16. Step 16

    Once baked, carefully place a wire rack over the cans and invert them to release the loaves.

17. Step 17

    Flip the loaves onto the rack and let them cool completely for about 1 1/2 hours.

18. Step 18

    For the finishing touch, prepare a glaze by sifting powdered sugar into a bowl and mixing in lemon juice until smooth.

19. Step 19

    Drizzle the glaze over the tops of the loaves, allowing it to cascade down the sides.

20. Step 20

    Let the loaves sit until the icing sets, which will take about 15 minutes.

21. Step 21

    Enjoy the delightful aroma and the sweet, nutty flavors of your freshly baked loaves!.