Polish Coffeecake (Placek)
This has become an Easter Tradition for us now that I will soon have a Polish
son-in-law. Actually have made it over the years for all occasions but it is
especially popular for Easter. I have several recipes but this one is so easy
and delicious - also I feel it is a must to use real butter.
2 cups milk
1/2 pound butter
1 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 to 2 cups sugar
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
1 teaspoon vanilla
6 eggs beaten
2 yeast cakes
1/2 cup warm water
1 cup raisins soaked in hot water
6 cups flour
Scald milk and butter. When lukewarm, add salt, sugar, nutmeg, vanilla, beaten
eggs and yeast cakes, which have been dissolved in the 1/2 warm water. Beat
well. Drain raisins and add to mixture. Beat well again.
Add flour, 2 cups at a time, beating well. Set in warm place to rise covered
with a towel. When doubled in bulk, beat again. Pour into 4 greased loaf pans.
Topping:
Beat 1 egg fluffy and brush over each loaf. Combine 1 tablespoon butter, 2
tablespoons sugar, 4 tablespoons flour and 1/4 teaspoon vanilla. Sprinkle over
unbaked loaves. Let rise until double in size.
Bake 45 minutes in 350 degree oven.