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Delicious Italian Easter Bread braided with colored eggs for Easter celebration

Italian Easter Bread

A simple braid of soft, slightly sweet dough with colorful eggs tucked into its folds, Italian Easter Bread is a nostalgic treat that embodies family traditions and warm gatherings.
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Prep Time 2 hours
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Course Bread, Dessert
Cuisine Italian
Servings 8 servings
Calories 250 kcal

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 1/4 teaspoon active dry yeast 1 packet
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup milk, warmed Should feel warm and gentle on the wrist
  • 1/4 cup butter, melted Use fresh butter for best results
  • 3 large eggs Room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Colorful eggs (for decoration) For aesthetic decoration
  • Sprinkles (for decoration) Adds a playful touch and crunch

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. Whisk them together so the dry mix feels even and light.
  • In a separate bowl, mix the warm milk, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla. Beat until the mixture looks smooth and glossy.
  • Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms. Use a wooden spoon or your hands to bring the flour in.
  • Knead the dough on a floured surface until smooth, about 5-7 minutes.
  • Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 hour.

Shaping and Rising

  • Punch down the dough, divide it into three equal pieces, and roll each piece into a long strand.
  • Braid the strands together and form into a wreath shape, tucking the ends under.
  • Place the braid on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  • Decorate the wreath with colorful eggs and sprinkles.
  • Let it rise for another 30 minutes, then preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

Baking

  • Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
  • Let it cool before serving.

Notes

If you have leftovers, wrap the cooled bread tightly. To revive a slice, sprinkle with water and warm briefly in the oven. Customize with mini chocolate chips or ricotta for variations.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 6gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 5gSodium: 200mgFiber: 1gSugar: 6g
Keyword Easter baking, Family Recipe, Italian Easter Bread, nostalgic, Sweet Bread
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