Paska Bread

Step 1Proof the yeast in 1/2 cup warm water in a large bowl until slightly frothy.

Step 2In  the meantime, dissolve 1/2 cup sugar in the warm milk; allow to cool to  lukewarm. Once cooled, add the milk mixture to the yeast mixture along  with 4 cups of flour. Mix well with a wooden spoon. Cover and put in a  dark, warm place until the mixture is bubbly and doubled in size, about 2  hours.

Step 3Stir  in the beaten eggs, 1/2 cup sugar, 1 cup butter, salt, and lemon peel.  Stir well to blend. Begin adding the remaining flour a cup at a time to  form a very soft dough.

Step 4Knead  the dough on a floured board until soft and elastic, about 10 minutes.  Place the dough in a greased bowl, turning to coat all sides. Cover bowl  with plastic wrap and allow to rise in a warm place until doubled,  about 2 hours. Punch dough down, and allow to rise again for 30 minutes.

Step 5Divide  dough into three parts (see Cook's Note). Shape into slightly rounded  loaves, and place on greased baking sheets. Let rise until doubled,  about 45 minutes to 1 hour. Beat 1 egg with 1 tablespoon water; brush  onto loaves.

Step 6Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).

Step 7Bake  in preheated oven until loaves are deep brown, 45 to 50 minutes.  Once  they are done, brush the tops with melted butter for a soft crust.