This light and slightly sweet Easter Bread is a delightful addition to any holiday meal. The soft, fluffy texture pairs perfectly with both sweet and savory dishes, and it can even be used for French toast the next day. Decorated with almonds and sprinkles, this traditional braided loaf is as beautiful as it is delicious!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 1 (1/4-ounce) packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
• 6 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
• 2/3 cup sugar
• 1 1/3 cups milk
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, plus extra for greasing
• 1 teaspoon fine salt
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten, plus 1 for egg wash
• 1/3 cup sliced skin-on almonds
• 1 tablespoon mini white nonpareils

Directions

1. Prepare the Yeast Mixture: In a stand mixer bowl, combine 1/3 cup warm water (about 110°F) with yeast, 1 tablespoon flour, and 1 tablespoon sugar. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until bubbly.
2. Heat the Milk Mixture: In a saucepan, heat the milk until bubbles form around the edges. Remove from heat and stir in butter, remaining sugar, and salt. Let cool for 10 minutes.
3. Mix the Dough: Add the milk mixture and beaten eggs to the yeast mixture. Gradually mix in the remaining flour until a soft dough forms. Beat on medium-high for about 5 minutes until the dough pulls away from the sides.
4. Knead & Rise: Transfer dough to a floured surface and knead for 5 minutes until smooth. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot for about 1 1/2 hours until doubled.
5. Shape the Bread: Punch down the dough and divide it into 3 equal parts. Roll each piece into a 16-inch rope. Braid the ropes, tuck the ends under, and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover and let rise for another hour.
6. Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Brush the loaf with beaten egg, then sprinkle almonds and nonpareils on top. Bake for 50-60 minutes until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped. Let cool for 30 minutes before slicing.

Nutrients (Per Serving, Approximate)

• Calories: 250
• Total Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Sugar: 10g
• Protein: 6g
• Sodium: 150mg

The History and Significance of Easter Bread

Easter Bread has a rich cultural history, with variations found in many countries. In Italy, it is known as Pane di Pasqua, often baked with colorful eggs nestled into the dough. In Greece, Tsoureki is a similar sweet bread, flavored with unique ingredients like mahleb and orange zest. Other European traditions include Kulich from Russia and Cozonac from Romania, each with its own special twist.

Regardless of its origins, Easter Bread is symbolic of renewal, abundance, and joy, making it a perfect representation of the Easter holiday. The braided shape often signifies unity and family, while the golden color is said to represent prosperity.

Why You’ll Love This Easter Bread Recipe

There are many reasons why this homemade Easter Bread should be a part of your holiday traditions:

• Soft and Fluffy Texture: The dough is enriched with butter, milk, and eggs, creating a tender, pillow-like crumb.
• Lightly Sweet Flavor: It’s not overly sugary, making it ideal for pairing with both savory and sweet accompaniments.
• Beautifully Braided Design: This bread is not only delicious but also visually stunning, with a golden crust topped with sliced almonds and festive sprinkles.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it plain, toasted with butter, or alongside meats and cheeses. The leftovers also make incredible French toast or bread pudding.
• Perfect for Special Occasions: While it’s traditionally enjoyed at Easter, this bread is great for brunches, tea parties, and holiday breakfasts all year round.

The Key to a Perfectly Fluffy Dough

The secret to making the perfect Easter Bread lies in proper dough preparation. Since this is an enriched dough, meaning it contains butter, milk, eggs, and sugar, it requires a bit more patience and kneading to develop its structure.

Here are a few tips to ensure your bread turns out perfectly every time:

• Activate the Yeast Properly: Make sure your water is warm (about 110°F/45°C) to activate the yeast effectively. If the water is too hot, it will kill the yeast; if it’s too cold, the dough won’t rise properly.
• Knead Until Smooth: The dough should be soft, elastic, and slightly tacky but not sticky. Kneading develops the gluten, which helps create that beautiful airy texture.
• Let the Dough Rise Fully: Since this is a rich dough, it takes longer to rise than a basic bread dough. Allow it to double in size during both rises to achieve maximum fluffiness.
• Use a Stand Mixer for Ease: While kneading by hand is traditional, using a stand mixer with a dough hook makes the process much easier and ensures an even mix.

Shaping and Braiding the Bread

One of the most beautiful aspects of Easter Bread is its braided shape. The braiding process may seem intimidating at first, but with a little practice, it becomes quite simple.

• Divide the Dough Evenly: After the first rise, divide the dough into three equal portions. Roll each portion into a 16-inch rope.
• Braid Loosely: Just like braiding hair, cross the three ropes over each other in an alternating pattern. Be sure to braid loosely so the bread has room to expand during the second rise.
• Tuck the Ends Under: This helps maintain a neat and uniform shape while baking.
• Brush with Egg Wash for Shine: Before baking, brush the dough with a beaten egg to achieve a golden, glossy finish.

Toppings: Almonds, Sprinkles, and More

The toppings on this Easter Bread add both flavor and festive flair. Traditionally, it is sprinkled with sliced almonds and white nonpareils (mini round sprinkles). However, you can get creative with your toppings:

• Colored Sugar: For a fun and vibrant look, use pastel-colored sanding sugar.
• Pearl Sugar: Adds a slightly crunchy texture and a bakery-style finish.
• Cinnamon Sugar: A light dusting of cinnamon and sugar before baking creates a warm, spiced aroma.
• Dried Fruit or Raisins: Add chopped candied citrus peel, golden raisins, or dried cranberries to the dough for extra sweetness.

Serving Suggestions for Easter Bread

Easter Bread is incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways, depending on the occasion:

• With Butter and Jam: Enjoy a slice warm with butter, honey, or fruit preserves for breakfast or brunch.
• Paired with Savory Dishes: Serve alongside ham, cheese, or smoked salmon for a delicious contrast of flavors.
• As French Toast: Leftover slices make amazing French toast—just dip them in an egg mixture and pan-fry until golden.
• With Coffee or Tea: This bread is perfect for an afternoon snack, served with a cup of coffee, tea, or hot chocolate.

Storing and Freezing Easter Bread

Since this bread is best enjoyed fresh, here are a few ways to store it properly:

• At Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container or wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 3 days.
• In the Freezer: Wrap tightly in plastic and place in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• To Reheat: Warm slices in a toaster or oven at 300°F for a few minutes to restore their soft texture.

Conclusion: A Must-Try Easter Tradition

Easter Bread is more than just a recipe—it’s a time-honored tradition that brings warmth and joy to any holiday gathering. Its delicate sweetness, soft texture, and stunning braided design make it a delightful centerpiece on any Easter table.

Whether you’re making it for the first time or continuing a family tradition, this bread is sure to become a favorite part of your holiday celebrations. From its light, buttery flavor to its festive toppings, every bite feels like a celebration of spring and renewal.