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Italian Easter Bread

Delicious Italian Easter Bread for Joyful Family Celebrations

Experience the warmth of Italian Easter Bread, a delightful centerpiece embodying joy, renewal, and family traditions.
Prep Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
First Rise 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time 3 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 12 slices
Course: Desserts
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 180

Ingredients
  

For the Dough
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour Use a gluten-free blend for gluten-free variation.
  • ¾ cup sugar Substitute with honey for a natural touch.
  • 2 large eggs For an egg-free option, use flaxseed meal mixed with water.
  • ½ cup melted butter Coconut oil can be a great dairy-free replacement.
  • 1 cup warm milk Non-dairy milk can be used.
  • 2 packets active dry yeast Consider using instant yeast for quicker prep.
  • 1 tablespoon citrus zest (orange or lemon) Any citrus zest can brighten the taste.
For the Decoration
  • 4 dyed hard-boiled eggs Symbolize spring.

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl
  • whisk
  • Baking sheet
  • Wire Rack

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Italian Easter Bread
  1. In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of warm milk with 2 packets of active dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5–10 minutes until frothy.
  2. Add 4 cups of all-purpose flour, ¾ cup of sugar, 2 beaten eggs, ½ cup of melted butter, and the zest of one orange to the yeast mixture. Stir the ingredients together until a cohesive dough forms.
  3. Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  4. Place the kneaded dough into a greased bowl and cover it. Set it in a warm spot for 1½ to 2 hours, until doubled in size.
  5. Punch down the dough to release air. Divide it into three pieces, rolling each into long ropes. Braid the ropes together gently.
  6. Carefully press dyed hard-boiled eggs at intervals along the braid, securing them in place.
  7. Cover the braided dough loosely with a towel and let it rise for about 30–45 minutes.
  8. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Brush the top of the risen bread with an egg wash, then bake for 25–30 minutes.
  9. Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes before slicing.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 180kcalCarbohydrates: 29gProtein: 4gFat: 6gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 100mgFiber: 1gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 200IUCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.

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