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Traditional Italian Easter Bread

Traditional Italian Easter Bread: A Sweet Family Tradition

Traditional Italian Easter Bread is a sweet, soft delight that symbolizes new life and family togetherness during Easter.
Prep Time 45 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Rising Time 2 hours
Total Time 3 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 12 slices
Course: Breakfast
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Dough
  • 4 cups All-purpose or Bread Flour
  • 1/2 cup Sugar
  • 3 large Eggs
  • 1/4 cup Unsalted Butter melted
  • 1 cup Warm Milk
  • 2 packets Yeast instant or active dry
  • 1 tablespoon Citrus Zest optional, lemon or orange
For Decoration
  • 4 pieces Dyed Eggs hard-boiled

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment Paper
  • Wire rack

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a small bowl, combine warm milk and yeast, allowing to sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
  2. In a large bowl, combine flour and sugar. Create a well in center and add yeast mixture, eggs, and melted butter. Mix until dough forms.
  3. Knead dough on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  4. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm area for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until doubled in size.
  5. Once risen, punch down the dough and divide into three pieces. Roll each into a rope and braid, placing dyed eggs decoratively.
  6. Place braided dough on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover loosely, and let rise for another 30-45 minutes.
  7. Preheat oven to 350°F. Brush dough with egg wash and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
  8. Cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 6gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 300IUCalcium: 30mgIron: 1mg

Notes

This recipe is a family favorite and makes a beautiful centerpiece for Easter celebrations. Feel free to customize it with your favorite mix-ins.

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