Kuchma with Prunes and Walnuts
Kuchma is a traditional Ukrainian sweet bread, often enriched with dried fruits and nuts. This version features plump prunes and crunchy walnuts, making it a delightful treat for any occasion.

๐ง Ingredients
- 500 g All-purpose flour
- 250 ml Warm milk
- 7 g Active dry yeast
- 100 g Granulated sugar
- 2 large Eggs
- 75 g Unsalted butter(melted)
- 1 tsp Salt
- 150 g Prunes(pitted and chopped)
- 100 g Walnuts(chopped)
- 1 for brushing Egg yolk
๐จโ๐ณ Instructions
- 1
In a small bowl, combine warm milk, 1 tablespoon of sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
โฑ๏ธ 10 minutes - 2
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, remaining sugar, and salt. Make a well in the center.
๐ก Tip: Ensure all dry ingredients are well combined. - 3
Pour the yeast mixture, beaten eggs, and melted butter into the well. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
๐ก Tip: Start mixing with a spoon or spatula, then switch to hands. - 4
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
โฑ๏ธ 10 minutes๐ก Tip: Dough should spring back when poked. - 5
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
โฑ๏ธ 1 hour - 6
Punch down the dough and gently knead in the chopped prunes and walnuts.
๐ก Tip: Be careful not to overwork the dough after adding the fruit and nuts. - 7
Shape the dough into a round loaf and place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
โฑ๏ธ 30 minutes - 8
Preheat oven to 180ยฐC (350ยฐF). Brush the top of the loaf with egg yolk.
โฑ๏ธ 10 minutes - 9
Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
โฑ๏ธ 40 minutes๐ก Tip: If the top browns too quickly, loosely tent with foil. - 10
Let cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.
๐ก Pro Tips
- โSoak prunes in warm water for 15 minutes if they are very dry.
- โFor extra flavor, add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough.
- โEnsure your yeast is active for a good rise.
โจ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add raisins or dried apricots along with the prunes.
- Substitute pecans for walnuts.
- Glaze with a simple sugar icing after cooling.