Go Back
–+ servings
Traditional Italian Easter Bread adorned with colorful eggs and festive decorations.

Traditional Italian Easter Bread

This soft and slightly sweet bread, braided beautifully, brings families together and makes for a perfect treat during any occasion.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 1 hour
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Course Breakfast, Dessert, Snack
Cuisine Italian
Servings 12 slices
Calories 200 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Dough

  • 4 cups all-purpose flour Sifted for lighter texture if desired.
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 tsp) Ensure yeast is fresh for proper rising.
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt Reduce if using salted butter.
  • 3/4 cup warm milk Warm but not hot to activate yeast.
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted Substitute with any butter if unsalted is not available.
  • 3 large eggs Use room temperature eggs for best results.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Optional: substitute with almond extract for variation.

For Garnish

  • 1 colored egg colored egg or decorated egg for garnish (optional) Optional but traditional.

Instructions
 

Preparation of Dough

  • In a large bowl, combine warm milk and sugar; sprinkle yeast on top. Let it sit until foamy, about 5-10 minutes.
  • In another bowl, whisk together flour and salt.
  • Add melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and the yeast mixture into the flour. Mix until a dough forms.
  • Knead the dough on a floured surface until smooth, about 5-10 minutes.
  • Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1-2 hours.

Baking

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Punch down the dough and divide it into three equal parts. Roll each part into a long rope and braid them together.
  • Transfer the braided dough to a greased baking sheet. If using, place colored eggs in the center of the braid.
  • Cover and let rise again for about 30 minutes.
  • Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
  • Let it cool before serving.

Notes

Serve warm with butter and sugar, or with jam, ricotta, or alongside coffee. To store, keep in an airtight container for up to 2 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Can be reheated in the oven for best texture.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 200kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 4gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 4gSodium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 5g
Keyword Braided Bread, Comfort Food, Easter Bread, Holiday Baking, Tradition
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!