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Italian Easter Bread

Delicious Italian Easter Bread: A Sweet Tradition for Spring

Delight in the flavors of traditional Italian Easter Bread, a fluffy, sweet dough adorned with vibrant eggs for your celebrations.
Prep Time 1 hour
Cook Time 30 minutes
First Rise 2 hours
Total Time 3 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 12 slices
Course: Desserts
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 200

Ingredients
  

For the Dough
  • 4 cups Flour Bread flour works best for texture.
  • 1/2 cup Sugar Coconut sugar is a low-glycemic alternative.
  • 3 large Eggs Flax eggs can be used for a vegan twist.
  • 1/3 cup Melted Butter Can substitute with coconut oil for dairy-free option.
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons Yeast Instant yeast can replace active dry yeast.
  • 1 cup Milk Almond or oat milk works for lactose-free.
  • 1 tablespoon Citrus Zest Lemon or orange zest adds brightness.
For the Decorations
  • 4 pieces Dyed Eggs Use hard-boiled eggs for safety and decoration.

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • baking sheet
  • Wooden spoon
  • wire rack

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Activate the Yeast: Warm 1 cup of milk to 110°F, then mix with 2 ¼ teaspoons of yeast and a pinch of sugar. Let sit until frothy for 5-10 minutes.
  2. Mix the Dough: In a bowl, whisk together 4 cups of flour and ½ cup of sugar. Add 3 large eggs, ⅓ cup melted butter, and yeast mixture. Stir until sticky dough forms.
  3. Knead for Perfection: Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and slightly tacky.
  4. First Rise: Place dough in greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm area until doubled in size, about 1.5 to 2 hours.
  5. Shape the Loaf: Punch down dough, divide into three pieces, roll into ropes, and braid them.
  6. Add the Eggs and Final Rise: Place the braided loaf on a baking sheet, press dyed eggs into the braid, cover, and let rise for another 30-45 minutes.
  7. Bake to Golden Perfection: Preheat oven to 350°F, brush with egg wash, and bake for 25-30 minutes.
  8. Cool and Serve: Let cool on a wire rack for 15-20 minutes, then slice and serve.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 200kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 5gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 100mgFiber: 1gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 300IUCalcium: 30mgIron: 1mg

Notes

For best results, follow the tips on measuring flour and creating a warm environment for rising.

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