Description
Braided Easter Bread is a traditional, sweet, and slightly rich bread perfect for Easter celebrations. This beautifully woven bread, often adorned with dyed eggs, is a stunning centerpiece for your holiday table. Follow this easy recipe to create a golden, fluffy masterpiece that will delight your family and guests.
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 whole milk, warmed
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Zest of 1 lemon or orange (optional)
- 1 egg yolk + 1 tbsp water (for egg wash)
- Dyed Easter eggs (optional, for decoration)
Instructions
- Gather and measure all ingredients. Warm milk to 110°F (43°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. Add warmed milk, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and citrus zest (if using). Mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1-1.5 hours or until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough and divide into three equal parts. Roll each into an 18-inch rope and braid together, tucking ends under.
- Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet, brush with egg wash, and optionally press in dyed Easter eggs.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes until golden brown. Cool before serving.
Notes
- Ensure milk is warm but not too hot to avoid killing the yeast.
- Knead thoroughly for proper gluten development.
- Let dough rise in a warm, draft-free place for best results.
- If using dyed eggs, ensure they are hard-boiled and cooled.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/10 of loaf)
- Calories: 280 Kcal
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: Braided Easter Bread, Easter bread recipe, sweet holiday bread, Easter dinner bread, homemade Easter bread