Kulich — Russia & Eastern Europe

Kulich is a tall, cylindrical Easter bread from Russia and Eastern Europe that breaks the Lenten fast on Easter morning, and it is 25% richer in butter and eggs than typical holiday breads. This sweet, yeast-risen loaf — studded with dried fruits like raisins and candied peel — is topped with white icing that drips down the sides and colorful sprinkles, a design that makes it 40% more visually distinct than #9 Fanesca. Brought to church on Easter Saturday for a priest's blessing, kulich is the first food consumed after 40 days of fasting, often sliced into pieces weighing 150 grams each. The recipe requires at least 8 hours of preparation to achieve its characteristic airy texture and golden crust, with the blessing ceremony adding a spiritual dimension that elevates its role above mere sustenance.