What Bulgarian Easter bread is traditionally called kozunak?

The Bulgarian Easter bread traditionally called kozunak is a sweet, enriched yeast bread.

Kozunak is prepared for Easter in Bulgaria and other parts of southeastern Europe. The dough commonly includes flour, yeast, eggs, sugar, milk, and butter or oil, with flavorings such as lemon zest, vanilla, or rum. It may be braided or baked as a rounded loaf, and some recipes include raisins or nuts.

Families often prepare kozunak as part of the Easter meal, alongside dyed eggs and other festive foods. The bread’s rich ingredients distinguish it from everyday loaves and reflect the celebratory importance of the holiday after the fasting period of Lent.

Kozunak belongs to a broad regional family of Easter breads, so similar loaves have related names in neighboring countries. It should not be confused with banitsa, a layered pastry that can be savory or sweet. The defining answer here is the Bulgarian name, kozunak, rather than a generic description such as “Easter bread.”