Name: Easter Bread with Almonds
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 3 h
Cuisine: European
Ingredients: 4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup warm milk (110°F/45°C); 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet); ⅓ cup granulated sugar; 4 tbsp unsalted butter (melted); 2 eggs; ½ tsp salt; 1 tsp vanilla extract; ½ tsp almond extract; 1 tsp lemon zest; ¼ cup sliced almonds; 1 egg + 1 tbsp water (for egg wash); 2 tbsp pearl sugar (optional, for topping)

Description

This Traditional Easter Bread with Almonds is a beautifully braided, slightly sweet bread with a soft and fluffy texture. Infused with vanilla, almond extract, and lemon zest, and topped with crunchy sliced almonds, this festive bread is perfect for Easter celebrations, brunch, or a special treat.

Ingredients

4 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup warm milk (110°F/45°C)
2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
⅓ cup granulated sugar
4 tbsp unsalted butter (melted)
2 eggs
½ tsp salt
1 tsp vanilla extract
½ tsp almond extract
1 tsp lemon zest
¼ cup sliced almonds
1 egg + 1 tbsp water (for egg wash)
2 tbsp pearl sugar (optional, for topping)

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Instructions

Activate the Yeast – In a small bowl, dissolve yeast in warm milk with 1 teaspoon of sugar. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
Prepare the Dough – In a large bowl, combine flour, remaining sugar, and salt. Add the yeast mixture, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, almond extract, and lemon zest.
Knead the Dough – Knead by hand or with a stand mixer (dough hook) for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
First Rise – Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
Shape the Bread – Punch down the dough, divide it into three equal parts, and braid them together. Transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Second Rise – Cover the braid and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes.
Brush & Garnish – Brush with egg wash, then sprinkle with sliced almonds and pearl sugar.
Bake – Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cool & Serve – Let the bread cool before slicing. Enjoy with butter, jam, or on its own!

Notes

Ensure the yeast is active by checking for foaming during activation.
For extra softness, use bread flour instead of all-purpose flour.
Overnight option: Let the dough rise in the fridge overnight for enhanced flavor.

Prep Time: 20min
Cook Time: 30min
Category: Bread
Method: Baking
Cuisine: European, Easter