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Traditional Italian Easter Bread

Delicious Traditional Italian Easter Bread to Celebrate Spring

A delightful Traditional Italian Easter Bread, perfect for spring celebrations, combining rich tradition, flavor, and visual appeal.
Prep Time 40 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Rising Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 40 minutes
Servings: 12 slices
Course: Breakfast
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 200

Ingredients
  

For the Dough
  • 4 cups Flour Use all-purpose flour for the best texture.
  • 1/2 cup Sugar
  • 2 large Eggs Use additional hard-boiled dyed eggs for decoration.
  • 1/4 cup Butter Melted.
For the Flavor
  • 1 tablespoon Citric Zest Lemon or orange zest.
  • 1 cup Warm Milk Warm, not hot.
  • 2 teaspoons Yeast Active dry yeast.

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Baking Sheet
  • Wire rack

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of warm milk and 2 teaspoons of yeast, allowing it to rest for about 5 minutes until frothy.
  2. Incorporate 3 cups of flour, 1/2 cup of sugar, 2 eggs, and 1/4 cup of melted butter into the mixture. Mix until a shaggy dough forms, then knead on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  3. Form the kneaded dough into a ball and place it in a lightly greased bowl, covering it with a damp cloth. Let it rise in a warm spot for 1½–2 hours, or until it has doubled in size and looks puffy.
  4. Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release air, then divide it into three equal portions. Roll each piece into a rope about 16-18 inches long. Braid the three ropes together, tucking the ends under to secure.
  5. Transfer the braided loaf to a lined baking sheet and cover it with a cloth. Allow it to rise for another 30 minutes until slightly puffed.
  6. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) during the last few minutes of rising. Brush the surface of the loaf with an egg wash and bake for 25-30 minutes.
  7. Once baked, transfer the bread to a wire rack to cool completely. Allow at least 30 minutes before slicing.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 200kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 5gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 100mgFiber: 1gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 300IUCalcium: 50mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Keep dough lightly covered during rises for moisture retention. This bread is perfect for sharing during Easter festivities.

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