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Italian Easter Bread Recipe

Delicious Italian Easter Bread Recipe for Festive Celebrations

This delightful Italian Easter Bread recipe is a festive favorite, perfect for celebrations and family gatherings.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 18 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 48 minutes
Servings: 12 slices
Course: Breakfast
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 150

Ingredients
  

For the Dough
  • 1 cup Milk Warmed to 120-130°F for best results.
  • 4 tablespoons Butter Opt for unsalted to better control the saltiness.
  • 1 packet Instant Yeast Can substitute with active dry yeast, but proof it in warm milk.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • ¼ cup Sugar Provides sweetness and supports yeast activity.
  • 2 large Eggs Separate for dough and egg wash.
  • 2-3 cups All-purpose Flour Add gradually until stiff and slightly sticky.
For Decoration
  • 2-6 Dyed Easter Eggs Colorful decorations to enhance appearance.
  • to taste Sprinkles Pastel hues are a delightful choice for Easter.

Equipment

  • mixing bowl
  • whisk
  • Stand mixer
  • dough hook
  • saucepan
  • Parchment Paper
  • baking sheet
  • candy thermometer
  • Wire Rack

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a small saucepan, gently warm 1 cup of milk and 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over low heat until the mixture reaches 120-130°F, stirring occasionally.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 packet of instant yeast, 1 teaspoon of salt, and ¼ cup of sugar. Add in 2 large eggs and mix well before pouring in the warm milk and melted butter.
  3. Gradually mix in 2 cups of all-purpose flour until incorporated. Using a stand mixer, beat on medium speed for 2 minutes, then gradually add an additional 2-3 cups of flour, mixing for 10-12 minutes until the dough is stiff and slightly sticky.
  4. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead by hand for 3-4 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  5. Cover the kneaded dough with a damp kitchen towel and let it rest for about 10 minutes.
  6. Divide the rested dough into 6 pieces, roll each into a 14-inch long rope, and braid them together to form a wreath shape.
  7. Cover the braided wreath and let it rise for about 45-60 minutes until doubled in size.
  8. Preheat your oven to 350°F. While heating, beat an additional egg for an egg wash and gently brush it over the wreath. Press dyed eggs into the center of the wreath.
  9. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes until golden brown and hollow sounding when tapped on the bottom.
  10. Allow the wreath to cool on a wire rack before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 4gFat: 3gSaturated Fat: 1.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gCholesterol: 45mgSodium: 120mgPotassium: 70mgFiber: 1gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 200IUCalcium: 50mgIron: 0.5mg

Notes

For best results, check milk temperature and knead the dough until it passes the 'windowpane test'.

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