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–+ servings
Traditional Braided Italian Easter Bread

Delicious Traditional Braided Italian Easter Bread Recipe

This Traditional Braided Italian Easter Bread is an enchanting centerpiece for Easter celebrations, perfect for bakers of all levels.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Rising Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 50 minutes
Servings: 12 slices
Course: Breakfast
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 180
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

Bread Ingredients
  • 4 cups All-purpose flour For gluten-free, consider gluten-free flour blend.
  • 0.5 cups Granulated sugar Can substitute honey or agave syrup.
  • 2.25 teaspoons Active dry yeast Ensure fresh for best results.
  • 1 cup Warm milk Can use almond milk for dairy-free.
  • 2 large Eggs Substitute with flaxseed for vegan option.
  • 0.5 cups Butter Use coconut oil for dairy-free.
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract Almond extract can be used as alternative.
  • 1 tablespoon Citrus zest (lemon or orange) Use a microplane for fine zest.
  • Colored eggs Optional for decoration.
  • Coarse sugar or sprinkles For garnish.

Equipment

  • mixing bowl
  • Baking sheet
  • Wire rack
  • Floured Surface
  • Plastic Wrap
  • Oven

Method
 

Baking Instructions
  1. In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of warm milk, 2 tablespoons of sugar, and 2 ¼ teaspoons of active dry yeast. Allow it to sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
  2. Stir in 4 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 beaten eggs, ½ cup of melted butter, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and the zest of one lemon to form a sticky dough.
  3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  4. Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours or until doubled.
  5. Punch down the dough and divide it into three strands. Braid them together.
  6. Transfer the braided loaf to a lined baking sheet and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes.
  7. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  8. Brush the top with an egg wash and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
  9. Cool on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes before slicing.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 180kcalCarbohydrates: 28gProtein: 4gFat: 6gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 45mgSodium: 130mgPotassium: 100mgFiber: 1gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 200IUCalcium: 50mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Baking this bread can create cherished family memories. The intricate braid and colorful decoration enhance its festive appeal.

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