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Easy Sweet Italian Easter Bread

A delightful, traditional Italian sweet bread braided with colorful Easter eggs, perfect for celebrating Easter with family.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 3 hours
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Bread, Breakfast, Dessert
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 210
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour Make sure it’s unbleached for a lovely texture.
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar This adds just the right amount of sweetness.
  • 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast Look for high-quality yeast for the best rise.
  • 1 teaspoon salt Essential for flavor balance.
  • 1 cup warm milk Aim for about 110°F (43°C); this activates the yeast.
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted Using unsalted butter helps control the salt in the recipe.
  • 2 large eggs Room temperature eggs will help create a fluffier texture.
  • 1 egg for egg wash This will give your bread a beautiful shiny finish.
  • Colorful eggs for decoration Dye them yourself or find pre-dyed eggs.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it’s foamy.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt thoroughly.
  3. Add the foamy yeast mixture, melted butter, and eggs into your flour mixture. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
  4. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic.
  5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours or until it has doubled in size.
Shaping
  1. Once risen, punch down the dough to release the air and divide it into three equal parts.
  2. Roll each part into a long rope, about 12-14 inches long.
  3. Braid the three ropes together and shape it into a circle on a greased baking sheet.
  4. Tuck colorful eggs gently into the braids.
Baking
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you let your bread rise again for about 20-30 minutes.
  2. Before baking, brush the dough lightly with the beaten egg.
  3. Place your bread in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
  4. Let the bread cool completely before slicing.

Notes

Wrap leftovers tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. They’re best enjoyed within 3 days. This bread can be frozen for up to three months.