Let's Begin!

Yeast Mixture

• In a large bowl, combine yeast, water, ¼ cup sugar, and milk. Mix until the yeast and sugar have dissolved.
• Stir in 1 cup flour until well blended. Cover and let stand in a warm place for 1 hour.

Dough

• In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the butter, ½ cup of sugar, and egg yolks. Add yeast-flour mixture, combining thoroughly.
• Add vanilla, cardamom, salt, and enough of the 3 to 3½ cups flour to make a soft dough. Stir in raisins, almonds, and orange rind.
• In a small bowl, beat 2 reserved egg whites until stiff. Fold them into the dough. Knead by machine or hand until a smooth and elastic dough forms, about 3 to 5 minutes.
• Place in a greased bowl, turning once to coat both sides. Cover with greased plastic wrap and let rise until doubled.
• Preheat the oven to 400℉, then coat a 2-pound coffee can or kulich pan with cooking spray.
• Punch down the dough and knead a few times. Place it in the prepared pan, cover it with greased plastic wrap, and let rise until the dough reaches the top of the can.
• Place the pan on a baking sheet and bake for 10 minutes.
• Reduce the heat to 350℉ and bake another 35 to 40 minutes or until a cake tester or long toothpick or thin skewer comes out clean.
• Remove the kulich from the oven and let it cool for 10 minutes. Unmold from the can and cool on a wire rack.
• Serve warm and enjoy with family and friends!