Moscow, with its rich cultural heritage and deep-rooted traditions, is a city that offers an incredible variety of Russian pastries and sweets. One of the most iconic and beloved baked goods in Russia is kulich, a traditional Easter bread that’s as much a part of Russian culture as paska (a sweet cheese dessert). Typically enjoyed during Orthodox Easter, kulich is a rich, yeast-based bread that’s beautifully decorated with glaze, sugar, and often adorned with candied fruits. It’s a must-try for anyone visiting Moscow, and there are plenty of places in the city where you can experience the best of this sweet, festive bread. Here’s everything you need to know about kulich, including where to find the best versions in Moscow.
What is Kulich?
The Traditional Russian Easter Bread
Kulich is a traditional Russian Easter bread, often prepared to celebrate Orthodox Easter. The bread is typically tall and cylindrical in shape, sometimes reaching a height of over a foot. It’s known for its rich texture, made with a combination of flour, sugar, yeast, eggs, and butter. The dough is sweet and slightly spiced, often incorporating vanilla, cardamom, or citrus zest for added depth of flavor.
Traditionally, kulich is decorated with a sugar glaze, and sometimes, it’s topped with colored sprinkles or candied fruit. Paska, the sweet cheese spread, is also served alongside kulich, and it’s used to spread on the bread.
Kulich has been a part of Russian Easter traditions for centuries, symbolizing the resurrection of Christ. The bread is often blessed by a priest during Easter services, and it’s shared among family and friends as part of the holiday celebration.
The Symbolism Behind Kulich
Kulich is not just a treat—it’s rich in symbolism. Its tall, cylindrical shape is said to represent the tomb of Christ, while the glaze and decorations represent the joy and resurrection of Christ. The bread itself, with its sweet, fragrant flavor, is meant to symbolize the spiritual rebirth associated with Easter. This deep symbolism makes kulich an important part of Orthodox Christian traditions in Russia and a beloved food item enjoyed during the Easter season.
Why You Should Try Kulich in Moscow
A Unique and Rich Flavor Experience
Kulich is a special occasion bread, and the flavors you get from a freshly baked loaf are unparalleled. The bread is light yet rich, with a slight sweetness that is balanced by the yeast and subtle spice notes. The glaze adds a layer of sweetness, while the candied fruits and decorations provide a burst of flavor and texture. For those who appreciate both rich desserts and traditional baked goods, kulich is an experience you shouldn’t miss.
A Cultural Tradition
By trying kulich in Moscow, you’re not just tasting a piece of delicious pastry—you’re experiencing a piece of Russian cultural history. For many Russians, kulich represents the joy of Easter and is a way of celebrating both family and faith. It’s a dish that’s deeply embedded in Russian culture, making it an essential part of any culinary exploration in the city, especially around Easter.
A Perfect Gift or Souvenir
Kulich is often given as a gift during the Easter season, and its beautiful presentation makes it an ideal gift for friends or family. The decorative glaze and elegant shapes of kulich make it a visually appealing item to bring home. Whether you’re enjoying it with a cup of tea or giving it as a thoughtful gift, kulich is always a great way to share the spirit of Easter.
Where to Try the Best Kulich in Moscow
1. Pavlova Café
Pavlova Café is renowned for its Russian pastries and classic desserts, and its kulich is a standout. The café’s version of the Easter bread is a perfect balance of sweet, fragrant dough with a smooth glaze and a sprinkle of colorful sugar. Known for its luxury and elegance, Pavlova Café creates kulich that’s not just delicious but also visually stunning.
Why It’s Great
- High-Quality Ingredients: The café uses premium ingredients to make their kulich, resulting in a flavor-packed, rich experience.
- Elegant Atmosphere: The sophisticated environment makes it a great spot to try traditional Russian pastries while enjoying a relaxing ambiance.
2. Boulangerie Dufresne
If you’re looking for French-inspired Russian pastries, Boulangerie Dufresne is a must-visit in Moscow. While they specialize in French baked goods, they also offer an exceptional version of Russian kulich. Their kulich is known for its delicate texture, light sweetness, and finely balanced glaze, making it a great twist on a traditional Russian favorite.
Why It’s Great
- French-Russian Fusion: The bakery’s approach to making kulich offers a fusion of Russian tradition with French baking techniques, making for a refined and unique version of the classic Easter bread.
- Artisanal Touch: Each loaf is hand-crafted with attention to detail, resulting in a beautiful and flavorful kulich.
3. Café Pushkin
One of Moscow’s most iconic and historically rich restaurants, Café Pushkin offers a magnificent version of kulich that’s as rich in flavor as it is in cultural significance. The restaurant’s kulich is made using a traditional recipe and is often served as part of their Easter menu. Café Pushkin’s kulich features a generously sweet glaze, candied fruits, and a moist, flavorful dough that perfectly captures the essence of this traditional pastry.
Why It’s Great
- Authentic and Traditional: Café Pushkin stays true to the classic Russian recipe, offering a truly authentic taste of kulich.
- Historical Atmosphere: Dining at Café Pushkin is an experience in itself, offering elegant décor that transports you to 19th-century Russia.
4. Eclair Bakery
For a modern twist on classic Russian pastries, Eclair Bakery is a standout. Known for its innovative takes on traditional baked goods, their kulich is made with high-quality ingredients and a creative approach. The bakery serves miniature versions of kulich that are just as flavorful as the traditional large loaves but offer a more manageable size.
Why It’s Great
- Modern Innovation: Eclair Bakery brings a contemporary approach to traditional Russian desserts, offering an exciting twist on classic kulich.
- Miniature Kulich: Their smaller, individually-sized kulich loaves make it easy to enjoy this treat without the commitment of a full-sized loaf.
5. Tante Clara
Located in the heart of Moscow, Tante Clara is a bakery known for its Russian and European fusion pastries. They serve a delicious kulich that features a soft, fluffy interior and is topped with a delicate sugar glaze and a sprinkle of candied orange peel for added flair. This version of kulich is lighter than most but still retains all the classic flavors.
Why It’s Great
- Unique Flavor Combinations: Tante Clara’s kulich incorporates a blend of traditional and modern flavors, making it a unique version of the classic pastry.
- Artisan Quality: The bakery focuses on quality ingredients and small-batch production, resulting in a well-crafted kulich every time.
6. Gastrobar Moscow
For those who are interested in the gastronomic side of kulich, Gastrobar Moscow is a trendy restaurant that offers a modern take on Russian classics, including Easter pastries. Their kulich is elevated with creative touches like herb-infused glazes and fruit compotes, giving it a fresh, innovative spin.
Why It’s Great
- Modern Russian Twist: Gastrobar offers a fresh take on traditional Russian dishes, making their kulich a delightful choice for those seeking innovation in their baked goods.
- Fusion of Flavors: The unique combination of herbs and fruit gives their kulich a complex flavor profile that’s sure to impress.
Conclusion
Kulich is a beloved Russian tradition, and enjoying this rich, flavorful bread in Moscow is a must for anyone interested in Russian culture and gastronomy. From traditional kulich at Café Pushkin to more innovative versions at Eclair Bakery and Gastrobar Moscow, Moscow’s best bakeries and restaurants offer a wide range of options for those eager to indulge in this delicious Easter treat. Whether you prefer the classic recipe or enjoy exploring modern twists, trying kulich in Moscow is an experience that will leave you with a deeper appreciation for Russian culinary traditions.