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Italian Easter Bread

Deliciously Soft Italian Easter Bread for Festive Gatherings

This Italian Easter Bread is a traditional festive treat symbolizing family, joy, and spring celebrations.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 18 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 58 minutes
Servings: 12 slices
Course: Desserts
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 200
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Dough
  • 1 cup Whole Milk Adds moisture and richness
  • 1/4 cup Unsalted Butter Melted for dough richness
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons Rapid Rise Instant Yeast For fluffy rise
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt Balances flavor
  • 1/4 cup Granulated Sugar Feeds yeast, sweetens bread
  • 2 large Eggs Provides richness and structure
  • 4 to 4 1/2 cups All-Purpose Flour Forms the dough backbone
For the Decoration
  • 1 large Egg (beaten for wash) For gloss finish
  • Dyed Easter Eggs Optional, for decoration
  • Colored Sprinkles Optional, for a festive touch

Equipment

  • Saucepan
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Parchment Paper
  • baking sheet
  • Wire rack

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Warm the milk and butter to 120-130°F in a saucepan.
  2. Combine dry ingredients in a bowl, then add warmed milk and eggs.
  3. Stir in flour gradually until a sticky dough forms, knead for 3-4 minutes.
  4. Rest the dough in a greased bowl covered with a cloth for 10 minutes.
  5. Divide dough into three pieces, shape into ropes, and braid.
  6. Let the braided dough rise for 45-60 minutes until doubled.
  7. Preheat oven to 350°F while dough rises.
  8. Brush top of braided dough with egg wash and add decoration if desired.
  9. Bake for 15-18 minutes until golden brown.
  10. Cool on wire rack and serve warm.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 200kcalCarbohydrates: 32gProtein: 5gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 50mgFiber: 1gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 250IUCalcium: 50mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Store at room temperature for up to 5 days, or freeze without decorations for 2 months. Reheat before serving if desired.

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