Ukrainian SMALL YEAST ROLLS KALACHYKY:

These rich and tasty little rolls are fine as snacks in themselves or as dinner rolls.

2 packages dry yeast
2 tablespoons lukewarm water
3 tablespoons lukewarm milk
6 tablespoons sugar
4 egg yolks
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
zest of 1 lemon
7 cups flour
1 cup heavy cream
4 tablespoons butter

1 egg for glaze
sugar or coarse salt (optional)

Combine yeast, water, milk, and 1 tablespoon sugar and let foam for 5 minutes or so. In a large bowl, mix egg yolks with 5 tablespoons sugar until pale. Add yeast mixture, vanilla, and lemon zest. Alternately add flour and cream and knead until dough leaves the hand. Add melted butter and knead a little longer until dough is shiny and pliable. Cover and allow to rise in a warm place until double in bulk.

Divide dough into quarters, then divide each into 5 parts, rolling into smooth balls. Place on lightly greased baking sheets at 2 inch intervals and allow to rise until double in bulk. Bake in preheated 350 degrees F. oven for 20 minutes. Brush with glaze, sprinkle with sugar or coarse salt (optional), and bake 5 more minutes.

Serve warm with tea or coffee.