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Easy Sweet Italian Easter Bread

This delightful Sweet Italian Easter Bread is a symbol of family and tradition, offering a soft, slightly sweet, and buttery flavor, all beautifully braided and adorned with colorful Easter eggs.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 50 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 175
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Bread Ingredients
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour For a light and fluffy texture. If you're gluten-free, use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour.
  • 1/2 cup sugar Use granulated sugar; you can adjust for sweetness if desired.
  • 1 packet active dry yeast (about 2 1/4 teaspoons) Essential for that classic rise.
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt To enhance flavor.
  • 1/2 cup milk Warm it to about 110°F (43°C) for optimal yeast activation.
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted Don’t use margarine; you’ll want that rich buttery flavor.
  • 2 large eggs Ensure they are at room temperature for the best consistency.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Adds a lovely aroma and hint of flavor.
  • Colorful Easter eggs (raw or plastic for decoration) These can also be omitted if you prefer a more minimalist loaf.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, warm the milk (to about 110°F/43°C) and dissolve the sugar in it. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
  2. Mix the dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour and 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
  3. Combine the wet ingredients: Add the yeast mixture, melted butter, eggs, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla into the dry mix. Stir until a dough forms.
  4. Knead the dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead it for about 5-7 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
  5. First rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.
Shaping and Baking
  1. Shape the bread: Once risen, punch it down gently to release air. Divide the dough into three equal pieces and roll each piece into a long rope. Braid the three ropes together.
  2. Prepare for decoration: Place your braided dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Gently nestle the colorful Easter eggs into the braid.
  3. Second rise: Let the braided bread rise again for about 30 minutes.
  4. Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
  5. Cool: Allow the bread to cool slightly before serving.

Notes

Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor. Store at room temperature for a couple of days in a sealed bag or container, or refrigerate for up to a week.