Easter Bread

There’s something magical about the aroma of fresh-baked Easter bread wafting through the house. Picture this: a warm loaf, golden and braided, whispering sweet nothings that make your stomach rumble in delight. Each slice reveals a soft, pillowy interior that’s just begging for a generous smear of butter or a drizzle of honey.

Growing up in a kitchen filled with laughter and chatter, my family’s Easter gatherings always featured this beautiful bread. It wasn’t just food; it was an experience—a delicious ritual that brought us together each springtime. The anticipation of sharing that first slice still sends shivers of joy down my spine.

One year, I made this bread for my family’s Easter brunch. Everyone’s eyes lit up as they took their first bites—pure bliss.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• All-Purpose Flour: Essential for creating that perfect dough texture; don’t skimp on quality.
• Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps activate the yeast; use more if you like it sweeter.
• Active Dry Yeast: Ensure it’s fresh for that fantastic rise; check the expiration date on the packet.
• Milk: Warm milk enriches the dough; I recommend whole milk for creaminess.
• Butter: Melted butter enhances flavor; use unsalted to control salt levels better.
• Eggs: Adds richness and color; using room temperature eggs ensures better incorporation into the dough.
• Zest of Lemon or Orange: Brightens up the flavor profile; a little zest goes a long way.
• Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavors; don’t skip it.
• Poppy Seeds or Sesame Seeds (optional): Great for topping; adds texture and a nutty crunch.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm milk with sugar and yeast. Let it sit until frothy—this means your yeast is alive and kicking.

Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Create a well in the center and add melted butter, eggs, lemon zest, and the activated yeast mixture.

Knead Away: Turn out onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic—your arms will get quite the workout.

First Rise: Place dough in a greased bowl. Cover with plastic wrap or a damp cloth and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size (about 1-2 hours).

Braid Your Bread: Punch down the dough gently then divide into three equal parts. Roll each section into long ropes and braid them together—don’t worry about perfection here.

Bake to Golden Perfection: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush with egg wash (beaten egg) and sprinkle seeds on top if desired. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.

Serve warm or at room temperature while basking in compliments from friends and family—you’ll be their hero.

This delightful Easter bread recipe celebrates tradition while offering everyone at your table something special to enjoy.

Key Tips for Making the Perfect Easter Bread

To achieve that fluffy texture, knead your dough well for at least 10 minutes. Good exercise for your arms.

Don’t rush the rising time; patience is key. Waiting brings out the best flavors and textures.

Add a touch of lemon zest for a fresh twist, making your Easter bread unforgettable.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by dissolving yeast in warm milk, then mix in flour and eggs to create a smooth dough. Allow it to rise, then shape and bake until golden brown.

Add Your Touch

Consider swapping out traditional raisins for dried cranberries or adding nuts for extra crunch. A sprinkle of cinnamon can also elevate the flavor.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Easter bread in an airtight container at room temperature. To reheat, wrap it in foil and warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through.

The first time I made Easter bread, my kitchen smelled like a bakery. Friends devoured it before I could even take a nice picture.

FAQ

What is Easter Bread?

Easter bread is a sweet, enriched dough often braided or shaped with festive toppings.

Can I use different dried fruits in my Easter Bread?

Absolutely. Feel free to swap dried fruits based on your preference—dried apricots work wonderfully too.

How do I know when my Easter Bread is done baking?

Your Easter bread is ready when it’s golden brown on top and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

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Delightful Easter Bread

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 12 servings

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Description

Easter Bread is a delightful, sweet, braided loaf that fills your home with warmth and tradition. A perfect centerpiece for your holiday table, this recipe will make every celebration memorable.

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Ingredients

• All-Purpose Flour
• Granulated Sugar
• Active Dry Yeast
• Whole Milk
• Unsalted Butter
• Eggs
• Lemon or Orange Zest
• Salt
• Poppy or Sesame Seeds (for topping)

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Instructions

1. Activate the yeast: Combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast in a small bowl; let sit until frothy.
2. Prepare the dough: In a large bowl, whisk flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add melted butter, eggs, lemon zest, and the activated yeast mixture.
3. Knead the dough: On a floured surface, knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. First rise: Place dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let rise in a warm place until doubled (1-2 hours).
5. Braid the bread: Punch down the dough, divide into three pieces, roll into ropes, and braid together.
6. Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush with egg wash; sprinkle seeds if desired. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 190
• Sugar: 7g
• Sodium: 120mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 50mg