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Italian Easter Bread

Delightful Italian Easter Bread: A Must-Try Holiday Treat

This Italian Easter Bread is a traditional recipe that brings families together during Easter with its beautiful braid and sweet aroma.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 18 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 58 minutes
Servings: 8 slices
Course: Desserts
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 200

Ingredients
  

For the Dough
  • 1 cup Milk Substitutions: Non-dairy milk can be used for a dairy-free option.
  • 1/4 cup Butter Substitutions: Margarine or plant-based butter for dairy-free options.
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons Instant Yeast Substitutions: Active dry yeast can be used but requires proofing first.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • 1/2 cup Sugar Substitutions: Honey or agave syrup for a natural sweetener.
  • 2 large Eggs Separate eggs needed for the dough and egg wash.
  • 3 cups All-purpose Flour
For the Decor
  • 6 pieces Dyed Easter Eggs Serve as beautiful decorations.
  • 1/4 cup Sprinkles Substitutions: Omit for a simpler design or use edible glitter.

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl
  • Saucepan
  • Wooden spoon
  • Dough Hook
  • Baking Sheet
  • kitchen towel

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Italian Easter Bread
  1. Gently warm 1 cup of milk and 1/4 cup of butter in a saucepan over low heat until it reaches 120-130°F. Transfer to a bowl and cool for a minute before adding 2 1/4 teaspoons of instant yeast and 1/2 cup of sugar. Whisk and let sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
  2. Incorporate 2 beaten eggs into the yeast mixture, stirring well. Sift in 3 cups of flour and 1 teaspoon of salt. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
  3. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead by hand for 3-4 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  4. Cover the dough with a kitchen towel and let it rest for 10 minutes in a warm spot.
  5. Divide the dough into 6 pieces, roll each into a 14-inch rope, braid them together, and form into a circular wreath.
  6. Place the wreath on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover with a towel, and let it rise for 45-60 minutes until doubled in size.
  7. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Beat 1 egg and brush over the risen wreath. Sprinkle with sprinkles and press in the dyed Easter eggs.
  8. Bake for 15-18 minutes until golden brown. Let cool on a wire rack.
  9. Allow to cool for at least 20 minutes before slicing and serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 200kcalCarbohydrates: 34gProtein: 4gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 1.5gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 90mgFiber: 1gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 400IUCalcium: 100mgIron: 1mg

Notes

For an extra twist, add citrus zest or other toppings according to your family's taste preferences.

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