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+ servings
Traditional Italian Easter Bread

Delicious Traditional Italian Easter Bread with Colorful Eggs

Delight in making Traditional Italian Easter Bread, a beautiful and tasty centerpiece perfect for your Easter festivities.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Rising Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 12 slices
Course: Breakfast
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 210

Ingredients
  

Dough Ingredients
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour Use for best structure and texture.
  • ½ cup sugar Adds sweetness.
  • 2 large eggs Enriches the dough.
  • ¼ cup butter Melted; substitute with vegetable oil if dairy-free.
  • 1 cup warm milk Activates yeast.
  • 2 teaspoons active dry yeast Recommended for a good rise.
  • 1 tablespoon citrus zest (orange or lemon) Infuses flavor.
Decoration Ingredients
  • dye for eggs For vibrant colors.

Equipment

  • mixing bowl
  • Measuring cups
  • Floured surface
  • baking sheet
  • wire rack

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. Warm 1 cup of milk to around 110°F (43°C). Sprinkle 2 teaspoons of active dry yeast into the warm milk and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until bubbly.
  2. In a large bowl, combine 4 cups of all-purpose flour, ½ cup of sugar, 2 large eggs, and ¼ cup of melted butter. Pour in the activated yeast mixture and zest from one lemon or orange, mixing until a sticky dough forms.
  3. Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Shape into a ball and place in a greased bowl.
  4. Cover the bowl with a towel and let it rise for 1½ to 2 hours until doubled in size.
  5. Gently deflate the dough and divide it into three equal portions. Roll each portion into a 16-18 inch long rope and braid them together.
  6. Tuck dyed and hard-boiled eggs into the braid for decoration.
  7. Cover the bread lightly with a towel and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
  8. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush the top with a beaten egg for a glossy finish. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
  9. Let cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 210kcalCarbohydrates: 34gProtein: 5gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 35mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 100mgFiber: 1gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 350IUCalcium: 50mgIron: 1mg

Notes

This Traditional Italian Easter Bread brings family together in the kitchen and elevates celebrations with its delightful aroma and beautiful presentation.

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