If you love working with yeast-based recipes, this festive bread is a must-try! The vibrant colors and light, fluffy texture make it as fun to bake as it is to eat. Plus, the best part? The eggs bake right in the dough—no pre-boiling required!
What is Italian Easter Bread?
Italian Easter Bread, known as Pane di Pasqua, is a traditional sweet bread made during the Easter season. It has a light, buttery texture, a hint of sweetness, and a soft crumb. The bread is braided into circles or wreaths, symbolizing the crown of thorns, and adorned with dyed Easter eggs, which represent rebirth and renewal.This Italian Easter bread recipe is a fun and festive way to celebrate Easter, whether you're making it for a family brunch or giving it as a homemade gift.
Ingredients for the Perfect Italian Easter Bread Recipe
To make this authentic Italian Easter bread, you will need:Dough Ingredients:
- 1 package Rapid Rise (instant) yeast (about 2-1/4 teaspoons)
- 1 ¼ cups milk
- Pinch of salt
- ⅓ cup butter
- 2 eggs, beaten
- ½ cup sugar
- 3 ½ cups flour (approximate)
Additional Ingredients:
- 1 egg, beaten with 1 teaspoon of water (for egg wash)
- 6 dyed Easter eggs (raw, not hard-boiled)
- Sprinkles or pearlized sugar (optional)
Pro Tip: The Easter eggs do not need to be hard-boiled beforehand. They will cook while the bread bakes, saving you time! Just handle them gently to avoid cracks.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Italian Easter Bread
1. Prepare the Dough
In a small saucepan, warm the milk and butter together just until the butter melts. Be careful not to overheat the mixture, as hot liquid can kill the yeast.In a large mixing bowl, combine the yeast, salt, eggs, and sugar. Pour in the warm (but not hot) milk and butter mixture. Add about half of the flour and mix until smooth using a dough hook attachment. Slowly add the remaining flour until a soft dough forms.
Tip: The exact amount of flour needed may vary. Keep adding flour until the dough is no longer sticky.
2. Knead and Let the Dough Rise
Knead the dough until smooth, either with a dough hook attachment or by hand on a lightly floured surface. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.3. Shape the Bread
Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rope about 14 inches long. Take two ropes at a time and twist them together to form a braid. Pinch the ends together to make a circular shape, forming a wreath.Place the braided circles onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Cover them with a towel and let them rise again for another hour, or until doubled in size.
4. Add the Finishing Touches
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).Brush each dough wreath with the beaten egg wash to give it a golden, glossy finish. Sprinkle with pearl sugar or colorful sprinkles for a festive touch. Carefully place a dyed Easter egg in the center of each ring, gently pressing it into the dough.
5. Bake and Cool
Bake for about 20 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown. Remove from the oven and let the bread cool on a wire rack before serving.Note: You can eat the eggs if the bread is served fresh. However, if the bread sits out for several hours, it's best not to consume the eggs.
Tips for the Best Italian Easter Bread Recipe
Use fresh yeast: Rapid Rise or instant yeast will give you the best rise and texture.Don’t overheat the milk: Keep the liquid warm but not hot, or it may kill the yeast.
Customize with flavors: Add a teaspoon of vanilla or almond extract for an extra layer of flavor.
Decorate with care: If you want a more vibrant color, use gel food coloring when dyeing the eggs.
I was looking at your recipe for rolls and got distracted by the cute colors. These look like so much fun to make!
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