In a traditional Ukrainian wedding, the decorated ceremonial bread is called korovai.
Korovai is a richly decorated round bread made for weddings and other important celebrations in Ukraine and neighboring Eastern European cultures. Its surface can feature dough birds, flowers, leaves, braids, and other symbolic shapes. The bread’s round form and elaborate decoration express wishes for prosperity, fertility, happiness, and family continuity.
Korovai is more than ordinary wedding cake, although it may occupy a similar ceremonial place at the reception. In some traditions, the couple receives or shares it, while in others it is displayed and distributed among guests. Recipes and meanings vary by region, and related ceremonial breads have different names in other Slavic communities.