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Traditional Italian Easter Bread

Traditional Italian Easter Bread with Colorful Eggs Delight

Experience the joy of spring with this Traditional Italian Easter Bread, a sweet treat enriched with citrus and adorned with colorful eggs.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
First Rise 2 hours
Total Time 3 hours
Servings: 10 slices
Course: Bread
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 200

Ingredients
  

For the Dough
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour can substitute half with bread flour
  • 0.5 cups granulated sugar reduce for a less sweet loaf
  • 2 large eggs for dough and egg wash
  • 0.5 cups unsalted butter softened, can use margarine
  • 1 cup whole milk or almond milk for dairy-free
  • 2 packages instant yeast can use active dry yeast
  • 1 tablespoon citrus zest (lemon/orange) omit for simpler flavor
For the Topping
  • as needed dyed eggs for decoration

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl
  • Floured surface
  • Baking Sheet
  • wire rack
  • kitchen towel

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Warm 1 cup of whole milk and sprinkle 2 packages of instant yeast on top. Allow it to bloom for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
  2. Combine 4 cups of all-purpose flour, 0.5 cup of sugar, 2 large eggs, 0.5 cup of softened unsalted butter, and zest from 1 lemon or orange in a large mixing bowl.
  3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm area for about 1.5 to 2 hours.
  5. Once risen, divide the dough into three equal portions and braid them together, pinching the ends to seal.
  6. Dye the eggs in vibrant colors and gently press them into the braid, evenly spaced.
  7. Cover the braided dough and let it rise for 30-45 minutes.
  8. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush with an egg wash and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
  9. Let the bread cool completely on a wire rack before slicing.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 200kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 6gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 180mgPotassium: 90mgFiber: 1gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 300IUCalcium: 60mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat at 350°F for 10-15 minutes.

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