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How to Make Slovak Easter Paska Bread Peeps

By , About.com Guide

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Here Is How to Make the Dough for Slovak Easter Paska Peeps
Dough Portioned Out for Slovak Easter Paska Peeps

Dough Portioned Out for Slovak Easter Paska Peeps

© 2010 Barbara Rolek licensed to About.com, Inc.
  1. In a small saucepan, heat milk, 1/2 cup sugar, salt and butter over low heat until butter melts and sugar dissolves. Cool to lukewarm (no hotter than 110 degrees).

  2. Dissolve yeast and 1 tablespoon sugar in warm water placed in a mixing bowl or stand mixer bowl that has been warmed. Let proof for 5 minutes. Add eggs, milk mixture and 4 1/2 cups flour. With the dough hook attachment, mix on speed 2 for 1 minute.

  3. Continue mixing on speed 2, and add remaining flour 1/2 cup at a time and mix about 2 minutes or until dough clings to hook and cleans sides of bowel. Continue mixing 2 minutes longer or until dough is smooth and elastic. It will be sticky to the touch.

  4. Place dough in greased bowl, turning to grease top. Cover and let rise in warm place about 1-2 hours or until doubled. This recipe will make 2 round loaves and 40 peeps. Punch down dough and divide in thirds, reserving a small piece of dough from 2 to decorate the round loaves. Shape 2 into round loaves and place in greased round (7x3-inch) bread pans. Using reserved dough, decorate with cross in center or braids around the edge. Cover and let rise in warm place 1-2 hours or until doubled.

  5. Heat oven to 350 degrees. Gently brush tops of risen dough with milk or beaten egg yolk. Bake 40 minutes or until golden brown and instant-read thermometer registers 190 degrees. Remove from pans immediately and cool on wire rack.

  6. To Make Paska Peeps: After dough has risen the first time, portion out 1/8 cup dough for each peep. Let rest, covered a few minutes.

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