Easter Bread
A celebratory and tender bread, perfect for special occasions, with the warm flavors of vanilla, butter, and a hint of lemon zest.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast Dissolved in warm milk.
- 1/2 cup milk Warmed to about 100°F-110°F.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened Real butter is recommended.
- 3 large eggs Swap one egg for an extra yolk for richness.
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 zest lemon Adds brightness.
- 1 egg beaten (for wash) Used for a glossy finish.
Instructions
Preparation
- Warm the milk and dissolve the yeast in it. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Make a well in the center and add the dissolved yeast, eggs, melted butter, vanilla, and lemon zest.
- Mix until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
- Punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf. Place it in a greased loaf pan.
- Cover and let rise again until doubled, about 30 minutes.
Baking
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush the top of the dough with the egg wash.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown. The bread is done when it sounds hollow when tapped.
Cooling
- Let cool before slicing and enjoy your Easter bread with family.
Notes
For variations, consider adding fruit, nuts, or spices. To store, wrap tightly in a towel for 2 days or freeze for longer preservation.
Nutrition
Serving: 1gCalories: 200kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 4gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 5gSodium: 200mgFiber: 1gSugar: 5g
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