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–+ servings
Traditional Italian Easter Bread

Delight in Traditional Italian Easter Bread: A Sweet Spring Festivity

Experience the sweet, buttery aroma of Traditional Italian Easter Bread, a festive centerpiece that evokes family gatherings and joyous celebrations.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
First Rise 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
  

For the Bread Dough
  • 4 cups All-purpose flour or bread flour for sturdier texture
  • 1/2 cup Sugar can substitute with honey for a unique flavor
  • 3 large Eggs enriches the dough
  • 1/4 cup Butter melted; margarine is a dairy-free alternative
  • 1 cup Warm milk about 110°F; non-dairy milk can be substituted
  • 2.5 teaspoons Active dry yeast fresh yeast is ideal for rise
  • 1 each Citrus zest lemon or orange to taste
For Decoration
  • 4 each Dyed hard-boiled eggs symbolic decoration

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Oven
  • Wire Rack

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk with active dry yeast and let it proof for 5–10 minutes.
  2. Gradually mix in flour, sugar, eggs, melted butter, and citrus zest until a soft dough forms.
  3. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  4. Cover the bowl and let the dough rise in a warm spot for 1.5 to 2 hours until doubled in size.
  5. Punch down the dough, divide into three pieces, roll each into a long rope, and braid them together.
  6. Press dyed hard-boiled eggs into the braided dough, spacing them evenly.
  7. Cover the braided dough and let it rise for an additional 30 minutes in a warm location.
  8. Preheat the oven and brush the risen dough with an egg wash, then bake for 25–30 minutes until golden brown.
  9. Let the bread cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 6gFat: 11gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 100mgFiber: 1gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 5IUCalcium: 2mgIron: 10mg

Notes

Allow the bread to cool properly before slicing to maintain tenderness. Customize your loaf with various flavors for a personal touch.

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