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Easter Bread Recipe

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  • Author: Amy
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
  • Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
  • Yield: 1 loaf (approximately 12 slices)
  • Category: Bread, Holiday Baking
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Greek, Italian, Traditional Easter
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Easter Bread is a soft, slightly sweet, and beautifully braided loaf adorned with colorful dyed eggs. Infused with citrus zest and baked to golden perfection, this festive bread is a traditional centerpiece for Easter celebrations. Whether served fresh, toasted, or with a spread of butter, it’s a delightful way to embrace the holiday spirit.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 package active dry yeast (2¼ teaspoons)
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • Zest of 1 orange
  • ⅔ cup warm milk (110°F/45°C)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 large eggs, at room temperature
  • ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 6 uncooked, dyed eggs
  • 2 tablespoons milk (for brushing)
  • Sprinkles or pearl sugar (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of flour, sugar, yeast, salt, lemon zest, and orange zest. Mix well.
  2. Add Wet Ingredients: Pour in the warm milk, melted butter, 2 eggs, and vanilla extract. Beat until smooth.
  3. Form the Dough: Gradually add the remaining flour to form a soft dough.
  4. Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 6-8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  5. First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
  6. Prepare the Eggs: While the dough rises, dye the uncooked eggs with food coloring. Allow them to dry completely.
  7. Shape the Bread: Punch down the risen dough and divide it into three equal pieces. Roll each piece into a 16-inch rope. Braid the ropes together, then shape the braid into a circle, pinching the ends to seal.
  8. Add the Eggs: Place the dyed eggs evenly around the braid, nestling them into the dough slightly.
  9. Second Rise: Cover the shaped bread with a towel and let it rise until doubled in size, about 30 minutes.
  10. Bake the Bread: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush the bread with milk, and if desired, sprinkle with sprinkles or pearl sugar. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
  11. Cool and Serve: Allow the bread to cool on a wire rack before serving.

Notes

  • Flavor Enhancements: Add mahlep or mastic resin for a traditional flavor.
  • Nutty Addition: Sprinkle slivered almonds on top before baking.
  • Glaze Finish: Drizzle a simple powdered sugar glaze over the cooled bread for extra sweetness.

Find it online: https://amytasty.com/easter-bread-recipe/