Description
This Italian Easter Bread is a sweet, braided loaf infused with spices and citrus zest, making it a festive treat for the holiday. Topped with colorful sprinkles, its both visually appealing and delicious, perfect for sharing with family and friends.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup whole milk, warmed to 110°F (43°C)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- Colored sprinkles (for decoration)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and active dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well combined.
- Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and add the melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and orange zest.
- Pour the frothy yeast mixture into the well. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
- Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Add more flour if the dough is too sticky.
- Form the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl, turning to coat. Cover with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap.
- Let the dough rise in a warm area for about 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Once risen, punch down the dough and transfer it back to a floured surface.
- Divide the dough into three equal pieces and roll each into a 24-inch rope.
- Pinch the ends together and braid the ropes, keeping it tight but not too tight.
- Pinch the ends together and tuck them under the loaf.
- Transfer the braided loaf to a greased baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Cover with a kitchen towel and let it rise for 30-45 minutes, or until puffed up.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Beat the remaining egg to create an egg wash and brush it over the loaf.
- Sprinkle colored sprinkles generously over the top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
- Check the internal temperature; it should read around 190°F (88°C).
- Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 10 minutes.
- Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Notes
- Ensure the milk is warmed to the correct temperature to activate the yeast.
- You can customize the sprinkles based on your preference or occasion.
- This bread can be enjoyed fresh or stored in an airtight container for a few days.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes