Description
Braided Easter Bread is a traditional, sweet, and beautifully decorated bread that brings joy to every Easter celebration. This recipe combines soft, fluffy dough with a hint of citrus and vanilla, making it a perfect centerpiece for your holiday table.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup warm milk (110°F)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Zest of 1 orange or lemon (optional)
- 1 egg yolk (for egg wash)
- Colored sprinkles or pearl sugar (for decoration)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl or stand mixer, combine the warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- Add the melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and citrus zest (if using). Gradually mix in the flour and salt until a soft dough forms.
- Knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.
- Punch down the risen dough and divide it into three equal parts. Roll each part into a long rope (about 18 inches).
- Braid the ropes together, tucking the ends under. Place the braided loaf on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush the loaf with egg yolk and sprinkle with colored sugar or sprinkles.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown. Let it cool before serving.
Notes
- Use fresh yeast for the best rise.
- If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour.
- For extra flavor, add raisins or dried fruit to the dough.
- Let the bread cool completely before slicing to avoid a gummy texture.
- Prep Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12 of loaf)
- Calories: 220 Kcal
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
Keywords: Braided Easter Bread, Easter bread recipe, sweet bread, holiday baking, festive bread