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Traditional Italian Easter Bread Recipe

Traditional Italian Easter Bread Recipe to Celebrate Spring

This Traditional Italian Easter Bread Recipe is a delightful centerpiece for your spring celebrations, beloved for its soft texture, vibrant eggs, and rich flavors.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Rising Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 12 slices
Course: Breakfast
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

Dough Ingredients
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour Provides structure and elasticity
  • 0.5 cups sugar Adds sweetness; can substitute with honey
  • 2 large eggs Enriches the dough
  • 0.5 cups unsalted butter Enhances richness and flavor
  • 1 cup warm milk Activates the yeast and adds moisture
  • 2 teaspoons active dry yeast Ensure it's fresh
  • 1 orange citrus zest Adds bright flavor; lemon zest can be used
Decoration Ingredients
  • 4-6 pieces dyed eggs Hard-boiled and colored for pressing into bread

Equipment

  • mixing bowl
  • baking sheet
  • Parchment Paper
  • Wire Rack

Method
 

Dough Preparation
  1. Warm 1 cup of milk and sprinkle in 2 teaspoons of active dry yeast, letting it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
  2. In a large bowl, combine 4 cups of flour, 0.5 cups of sugar, 2 eggs, 0.5 cups of butter, and zest of 1 orange. Mix until a dough forms.
  3. Knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
First Rise
  1. Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm area for 1.5 to 2 hours.
Shaping the Bread
  1. Punch down the dough, divide it into three portions, roll into ropes, and braid them together.
  2. Shape the braided loaf into a wreath.
Final Touches
  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Press eggs into the braid and brush with egg wash made from 1 egg and 1 tablespoon of water.
Baking
  1. Bake on a lined baking sheet for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped.
Cooling and Serving
  1. Let cool on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 6gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 120mgFiber: 1gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 300IUCalcium: 50mgIron: 1mg

Notes

For best results, ensure your yeast is fresh and avoid over-kneading the dough. Store leftovers at room temperature wrapped in plastic for optimal freshness.

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