Easter is a magical time when the air fills with the sweet scent of blooming flowers and freshly baked treats. Imagine biting into a warm slice of Easter bread, the soft texture melting in your mouth while hints of citrus and vanilla dance on your palate. This isn’t just any bread; it’s a family tradition that brings us all together around the table.
As kids, we would gather in our grandma’s kitchen, flour flying everywhere like a scene from a cooking show gone wrong. The sound of laughter mixed with the aroma of rising dough created memories that linger like the taste of that delicious bread. Now, it’s my turn to carry on this tradition and share this delightful recipe with you.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This delightful Easter bread is simple to prepare and perfect for novice bakers
- The rich flavor profile combines sweetness with citrus zest for a refreshing twist
- With its beautiful braided appearance, it makes an impressive centerpiece for any gathering
- Enjoy it fresh out of the oven or toasted with butter for breakfast or brunch
Every time I bake this Easter bread, I’m reminded of how my family would fight over the last piece—my youngest brother once tried to hide it under his bed.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- All-Purpose Flour: Use high-quality flour for the best structure; avoid self-rising flour as we need control over leavening.
- Active Dry Yeast: Ensure your yeast is fresh; check expiration dates so your dough rises perfectly.
- Granulated Sugar: This adds sweetness; feel free to adjust based on your taste preference.
- Milk: Warm milk helps activate yeast; use whole milk for richness or skim if you prefer lighter options.
- Eggs: Use large eggs at room temperature; they add moisture and richness to the dough.
- Butter: Softened butter gives that lovely flavor; don’t skimp on quality if you can help it.
- Zest of Orange or Lemon: This adds brightness; choose organic fruits if possible since we’ll be using the peel.
- Salt: A pinch enhances flavor but don’t overdo it—too much can hinder yeast activity.
- Colored Sprinkles (Optional): For decoration. They make your Easter bread visually festive—because who doesn’t love sprinkles?
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, combine warm milk and sugar until dissolved. Sprinkle yeast over top without stirring; let it sit for about five minutes until frothy.
In another bowl, whisk together eggs and softened butter until smooth. Once frothy, mix this egg mixture into the yeast mixture along with lemon or orange zest.
Gradually add flour and salt into the wet ingredients. Stir until a shaggy dough forms; then knead on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about an hour or until doubled in size. Look for that beautiful puffiness.
Once risen, punch down the dough gently to release air bubbles. Divide it into three equal pieces and roll each piece into long ropes about 12 inches long. Braid them together carefully—this is where you can channel your inner artisan baker.
Transfer your braided loaf onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover again and let rise for another 30 minutes while you admire your handiwork.
Brush with an egg wash (beaten egg) before baking to achieve that golden brown finish. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Let cool slightly before sprinkling colored sprinkles on top if desired—because why not add some fun? Slice when cooled completely… if you can resist.
And voilà. You’ve just made delightful Easter bread that will impress family and friends alike. Enjoy each soft bite while reminiscing about joyful moments shared around the table during special occasions.
This Easter bread isn’t just food—it’s tradition wrapped in flavor.
You Must Know
- Easter Bread is not just a treat; it’s a warm hug from the oven, filled with nostalgia and joy
- The sweet aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone gathering around, ready to celebrate with every fluffy bite
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by mixing your dry ingredients first, then gradually add wet ingredients for a smooth dough. Allow it to rise until doubled in size for that fluffy texture.
Add Your Touch
Consider incorporating citrus zest or dried fruits for extra flavor. You can also swap out traditional milk for almond milk to make it dairy-free.
Storing & Reheating
Keep leftover Easter Bread wrapped tightly at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze slices and reheat them in the toaster.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Knead the dough gently; over-kneading can make it tough instead of soft and fluffy
- Use fresh yeast for best results, as old yeast may not rise properly
- Don’t rush the rising time; patience makes perfect Easter Bread
I once made this Easter Bread for a family gathering, and it vanished faster than I could say “carbs.” Everyone raved about its softness, and now it’s my go-to recipe.
FAQ
What is Easter Bread?
Easter Bread is a sweet, braided bread traditionally made during the Easter season.
Can I make Easter Bread ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can prepare the dough one day prior and refrigerate it overnight.
What’s the best way to serve Easter Bread?
Serve it plain or with butter; it’s delicious toasted too.
Easter Bread
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Easter Bread is a delightful sweet braided bread, perfect for festive gatherings. Its fluffy texture and citrus notes create cherished moments around the holiday table.
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup warm milk
- 3 large eggs
- ½ cup softened butter
- Zest of 1 orange or lemon
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Colored sprinkles (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, dissolve sugar in warm milk, then sprinkle yeast on top without stirring. Let sit for about five minutes until frothy.
- Whisk eggs and softened butter in another bowl until smooth. Mix this into the yeast mixture along with citrus zest.
- Gradually add flour and salt to the wet ingredients, stirring until a shaggy dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for about an hour or until doubled.
- Punch down the risen dough and divide it into three equal pieces. Roll each piece into long ropes and braid them together.
- Transfer the braided loaf to a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover, and let rise for another 30 minutes.
- Brush with an egg wash before baking for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 40mg