Description
A beloved family tradition, this beautifully braided Italian Easter Bread combines sweet flavors and vibrant colors, adorned with dyed eggs.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for kneading)
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup whole milk, warmed to 110°F
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled slightly
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- Zest of 1 lemon or 1 orange (optional but recommended)
- 6 dyed raw eggs
- 1 egg + 1 tbsp water, for egg wash
- Colored sprinkles (nonpareils or confetti style)
Instructions
- In a small bowl, stir the yeast and 1 teaspoon of sugar into the warm milk. Let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes, or until foamy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, remaining sugar, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, melted butter, vanilla, and citrus zest. Pour both mixtures into the dry ingredients, stirring until a shaggy dough forms. Knead the dough for 8 to 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Once risen, punch it down and divide the dough into three equal portions. Roll each piece into ropes and braid them together. Shape into a circle and place dyed eggs in the braid.
- Transfer the bread to a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover loosely with a towel, and let it rise for another 30 to 45 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush the dough with egg wash, sprinkle with colored nonpareils, and bake for 25 to 30 minutes until golden brown. Let cool before slicing.
Notes
For best results, use unbleached all-purpose flour and ensure your yeast is fresh. Store at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 150 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 60mg