Description
Easter bread is a soft, slightly sweet, and beautifully braided bread traditionally enjoyed during the Easter season. Enriched with eggs and butter, this festive bread has a rich, tender texture and can be customized with dried fruit, citrus zest, or decorative colored eggs. Perfect for holiday gatherings, this homemade Easter bread is a delicious and eye-catching centerpiece for your celebration!
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast
- ¾ cup warm milk
- 2 large eggs
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp lemon or orange zest (optional)
- ½ cup raisins or dried fruit (optional)
- 3–4 colored eggs (optional, for decoration)
Instructions
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Prepare the yeast:
- In a small bowl, dissolve yeast in warm milk with 1 tsp sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
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Mix the dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt.
- Add eggs, melted butter, vanilla extract, and citrus zest.
- Pour in the activated yeast mixture and mix until a dough forms.
-
Knead the dough:
- Transfer to a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
-
First rise:
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours until doubled in size.
-
Shape the bread:
- Punch down the dough and divide it into three equal parts.
- Roll each part into a long rope and braid them together.
- If using colored eggs, gently press them into the braid.
-
Second rise:
- Place the braided dough on a baking sheet, cover, and let it rise for 30-45 minutes.
-
Bake:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Brush the bread with an egg wash and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
-
Cool and serve:
- Let the bread cool before slicing and serving.
Notes
- For a softer bread, knead thoroughly and allow sufficient rising time.
- To make a sugar glaze, mix powdered sugar with milk and drizzle over cooled bread.
- Store at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 20min
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: European