The Ultimate Easter Bread Recipe

Easter Bread with a colorful egg in the middle is a beautiful and traditional holiday treat! These adorable bread rings are soft, slightly sweet, and easy to make. Whether you’re baking for family or friends, this recipe will bring joy to your Easter table.

The History and Tradition of Easter Bread

Easter Bread has a rich cultural and religious history, dating back centuries. Many European countries have their own variations of this festive bread, each with unique ingredients and traditions. In Italy, Pane di Pasqua is a staple, often featuring bright eggs nestled within its braided dough. Greece has Tsoureki, a slightly sweet, spiced bread traditionally flavored with mahlepi. Eastern European versions often incorporate nuts, dried fruits, or even honey. No matter the variation, Easter Bread remains a symbol of renewal and celebration.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Festive and Fun: The colorful egg in the center makes it perfect for Easter celebrations.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and step-by-step instructions, you’ll have no trouble baking this delicious bread.
• Customizable: You can decorate with sprinkles, substitute the real egg for a chocolate one, or enjoy it plain.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Dough:

• 1 cup whole milk
• ¼ cup butter
• 4 cups all-purpose flour (divided: 2 cups + 2 cups)
• ⅓ cup granulated sugar
• 2¼ teaspoons rapid rise instant yeast (1 package)
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Zest of 1 orange
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Egg Wash:

• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon milk

For Decoration:

• Dyed Easter eggs (uncooked – NOT hardboiled)
• Colorful sprinkles

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine:

• 2 cups of flour
• Sugar
• Yeast
• Lemon and orange zest Mix well and set aside.

2. Warm the Milk and Butter

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine milk and butter. Heat in the microwave for 1 minute, stir, and continue heating in 10-second intervals until warm but not hot.

3. Make the Dough

Add eggs, vanilla extract, and the warmed milk mixture to the dry ingredients. Using a stand mixer with a dough hook, mix for about a minute. The mixture should resemble cake batter.

Gradually add the remaining 2 cups of flour while mixing. Continue kneading with the dough hook for about 8 minutes, until the dough is smooth and no longer sticks to the bowl. If the dough remains sticky, add a tablespoon of flour at a time until it reaches the right consistency.

4. Rest the Dough

Place the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead by hand a few times to form a ball. Transfer to a clean bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rest for 15 minutes.

5. Shape the Dough

• Remove the dough from the bowl and punch it down to release air.
• Divide into 8 equal pieces.
• Roll each piece into an 11-inch-long rope.
• Pinch two ropes together at the top, then braid them.
• Form the braid into a ring and pinch the ends together.

6. Let the Dough Rise

Place the braided rings on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 30 minutes to an hour, until doubled in size.

7. Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) while the dough rises.

8. Apply Egg Wash & Decorate

In a small bowl, whisk together 1 egg and 1 teaspoon of milk. Use a pastry brush to coat the dough with the egg wash.

Place an uncooked dyed Easter egg in the center of each bread ring. Add colorful sprinkles for a festive touch.

9. Bake the Bread

Bake for 20 minutes, rotating the baking sheet halfway through for even cooking. The eggs will be soft-boiled by the time the bread is done.

10. Cool and Serve

Allow the bread to cool on a wire rack before serving. Easter Bread is best enjoyed warm!

Storage Tips

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days (remove the eggs and refrigerate them separately).
• Refrigerator: Keeps fresh for up to 5 days.
• Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months (remove eggs before freezing).

Best Ways to Serve Easter Bread

Easter Bread is delicious on its own, but you can elevate its flavors by serving it in creative ways. Spread a layer of butter or honey over a warm slice for a delightful breakfast treat. It also pairs well with soft cheeses, fresh fruit, or jam. For a festive brunch, serve it alongside a fruit salad and hot coffee or tea. Leftover Easter Bread can even be used to make an indulgent French toast the next morning!

Kid-Friendly Easter Bread Decorating Ideas

Making Easter Bread can be a fun family activity, especially when it comes to decorating. Let kids dye the eggs in their favorite colors before placing them in the dough. Use various sprinkles, edible glitter, or even small candies to add extra charm. For an extra-special touch, drizzle a simple icing made from powdered sugar and milk over the cooled bread.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

To ensure your Easter Bread turns out perfectly, avoid these common baking mistakes:

1. Over-kneading or under-kneading: Proper kneading ensures the right texture.
2. Not letting the dough rise enough: Patience is key for fluffy bread.
3. Using hardboiled eggs instead of raw: The eggs should be raw before baking, as they will cook in the oven.
4. Skipping the egg wash: This step gives the bread a beautiful golden-brown finish. By following these tips, your Easter Bread will be a perfect centerpiece for your holiday celebration!

FAQs & Customization Options

Can I Use a Chocolate Egg Instead?

Absolutely! Bake the bread with a plain egg in the center, remove it after baking, and replace it with a chocolate egg.

Do I Have to Use Real Eggs?

No! You can skip the egg altogether or use a decorative plastic egg.

Can I Make a Larger Batch?

Yes! Simply double or triple the ingredients to make more Easter Bread rings.

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Final Thoughts

This Easter Bread recipe is a showstopper that will impress your family and guests. With its sweet, citrus-infused flavor and festive decorations, it’s a must-have for your Easter table. Give it a try and enjoy this delightful holiday treat!

Happy Baking & Happy Easter!