Easter is the time when families come together to celebrate love, joy, and a whole lot of food. Imagine walking into a home filled with the heavenly aroma of freshly baked Easter bread wafting through the air. This isn’t just any bread; it’s soft, sweet, and practically begs to be slathered in butter or enjoyed with a cup of coffee.
Every year, I remember my grandma’s kitchen bustling with activity as we prepared for the big feast. The laughter and chatter mixed with the smell of yeast rising was pure magic. Baking this bread evokes those cherished memories and makes any occasion feel special.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This delightful Easter bread is easy to prepare and perfect for sharing with loved ones
- Its rich flavors and gorgeous braided design make it visually stunning on any table
- The versatility allows it to be enjoyed during breakfast or as a dessert after dinner
- Plus, it’s a fantastic way to get kids involved in baking!
My friends still rave about the time I accidentally made two loaves instead of one—let’s just say they were very happy campers!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- All-Purpose Flour: Essential for creating that soft texture; opt for unbleached flour for a better flavor.
- Active Dry Yeast: This little magic maker helps your bread rise beautifully; always check the expiration date.
- Granulated Sugar: Sweetens your dough perfectly; avoid brown sugar here as it changes the texture.
- Milk: Use whole milk for richness; warm it slightly before adding it to activate the yeast.
- Butter: Melted butter adds moisture and flavor; don’t skip this step if you want a luscious loaf!
- Eggs: They provide structure and richness; using large eggs is best for consistency in your dough.
- Salt: Enhances flavor but keep it minimal—about half a teaspoon will do wonders.
- Zest of Lemon/Orange: Adds a refreshing citrus note that brightens up the overall taste; choose organic if possible.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Activate Your Yeast: Start by warming 1 cup of milk until it’s lukewarm—think baby bath water! Sprinkle in 2 teaspoons of active dry yeast along with 1 tablespoon of sugar. Let this sit until foamy.
Mixing It Up!: In a large mixing bowl, combine 4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Create a well in the center and pour in your activated yeast mixture.
Add Some Goodies!: Crack in 3 large eggs and add 1/4 cup melted butter along with zest from either an orange or lemon. Mix until combined but don’t overwork it—gentle hands lead to fluffy bread.
Knead Like You Mean It!: Transfer your dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Consider this your mini workout session; those muscles will thank you later!
First Rise Time!: Place your dough in an oiled bowl and cover it with a damp cloth. Let it rise in a warm place for about an hour or until doubled in size.
Braid It Up!: Once risen, punch down the dough gently (take out that frustration), then divide into three equal pieces. Roll them out into long ropes and braid them together like you’re giving your loaf some stylish hair!
Final Rise & Bake!: Place your braided loaf on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover again and let rise for another 30 minutes while preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for around 30-35 minutes until golden brown—your home will smell divine!
Enjoy every soft slice of this delectable Easter bread that brings warmth to gatherings!
You Must Know
- Easter Bread is more than a treat; it’s a tradition that fills your home with sweet, warm scents
- The soft texture and rich flavors will make you forget store-bought options entirely
- Plus, it’s perfect for sharing with family and friends during festive gatherings
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To make the best Easter Bread, start by mixing your dry ingredients first, then gradually add wet ones while kneading. This ensures an even dough that’s fluffy and light.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your Easter Bread by adding orange zest or dried fruits like currants. These little additions can elevate the flavor profile and make it uniquely yours.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover Easter Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. To reheat, wrap in foil and warm in the oven at 300°F for about 10 minutes.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For a perfectly soft texture, let your dough rise in a warm area away from drafts
- Don’t rush the proofing process; patience is key!
- If using dried fruit, soak them beforehand to enhance their flavor and softness
The first time I made this Easter Bread, my kitchen smelled like heaven! My family couldn’t wait to dig in, and their smiles were priceless as they enjoyed every bite together.
FAQ
What is the best flour for making Easter Bread?
Use all-purpose flour for a balanced texture that isn’t too dense or too light.
Can I make Easter Bread ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough a day before and refrigerate it until baking.
How long does Easter Bread last?
Properly stored, it lasts about three days at room temperature without losing quality.
Delightful Easter Bread
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Easter Bread is a delightful sweet bread that fills your home with warmth and tradition, making it perfect for holiday celebrations and cherished family gatherings.
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Zest of 1 lemon or orange
Instructions
- Warm the milk until lukewarm, then sprinkle in the yeast and sugar; let sit until foamy.
- In a bowl, mix flour, remaining sugar, and salt. Add the yeast mixture, eggs, melted butter, and zest; combine gently.
- Knead on a floured surface until smooth (about 10 minutes). Let rise in an oiled bowl until doubled (about 1 hour).
- Punch down the dough, divide it into three pieces, roll into ropes, and braid.
- Let the braided loaf rise again for 30 minutes on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 155
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 85mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
