Name: Creamy Braided Easter Bread
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 3 h
Ingredients: 4 cups (500g) all-purpose flour; 1/3 cup (65g) granulated sugar; 2 1/4 tsp (7g) active dry yeast; 1 tsp (6g) salt; 1 cup (240ml) warm milk (110°F/43°C); 2 large eggs + 1 for egg wash; 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened; 1 tsp vanilla extract; Zest of 1 lemon; 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened (for filling); 1/4 cup (50g) sugar (for filling); 1 egg yolk (for filling); 1 tsp vanilla extract (for filling)

Creamy Braided Easter Bread: A Luxurious, Buttery Masterpiece for Your Holiday Table 🥖🌷✨

1. Introduction

This easy braided Easter bread recipe creates a stunning centerpiece for your holiday celebrations with its golden crust, tender crumb, and luscious creamy filling. Unlike traditional Easter breads, our version features a rich, velvety interior that makes every slice irresistible. Whether you’re continuing family traditions or starting new ones, this bread will become an instant favorite.

Golden-brown Creamy Braided Easter Bread with creamy filling, perfect for Easter celebrations.

What makes this easy braided Easter bread recipe special is its perfect balance of simplicity and elegance. The dough comes together quickly with pantry staples, while the braiding technique creates an impressive presentation. The creamy filling adds moisture and richness that elevates this bread above ordinary holiday loaves. If you love baking sweet treats, check out our baking recipes collection for more delicious ideas. Follow our step-by-step guide to create bakery-quality results in your own kitchen.

2. Ingredients

For this easy braided Easter bread recipe, you’ll need:

4 cups (500g) all-purpose flour
1/3 cup (65g) granulated sugar
2 1/4 tsp (7g) active dry yeast
1 tsp (6g) salt
1 cup (240ml) warm milk (110°F/43°C)
2 large eggs + 1 for egg wash
1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
1 tsp vanilla extract
Zest of 1 lemon

For the creamy filling:

8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup (50g) sugar
1 egg yolk
1 tsp vanilla extract

Looking for more breakfast inspiration? Our breakfast and brunch recipes section has plenty of ideas to start your day right.

3. Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together warm milk, eggs, softened butter, vanilla, and lemon zest. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until a shaggy dough forms. For more detailed baking techniques, you might want to check out this comprehensive braided bread guide.

Ingredients for Creamy Braided Easter Bread in a mixing bowl on a wooden table.

Step 2: Knead the Dough

Transfer dough to a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with dough hook attachment for 5-6 minutes on medium speed. The dough should be slightly tacky but not sticky. If needed, add flour 1 tablespoon at a time. For more kneading tips and techniques, visit our about page where we share our baking philosophy.

Stand mixer kneading dough for Creamy Braided Easter Bread with warm milk nearby.

Step 3: First Rise

Place dough in a greased bowl, turning to coat all sides. Cover with plastic wrap or a damp kitchen towel and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours until doubled in size. Meanwhile, prepare the creamy filling by beating all filling ingredients together until smooth. If you’re interested in working with us to create more amazing recipes like this, check out our collaboration opportunities.

Rising dough for Creamy Braided Easter Bread covered with a kitchen towel.

Step 4: Shape and Bake

Punch down risen dough and divide into 3 equal portions. Roll each into a 20-inch rope. Place ropes parallel to each other and braid loosely. Transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover, and let rise 30 minutes. Brush with egg wash and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes until golden brown. For more holiday baking ideas, explore our dessert recipes collection.

Braided Easter Bread loaf brushed with egg wash and sprinkled with sesame seeds before baking.

4. Expert Tips

For perfect results with this easy braided Easter bread recipe:

Use a kitchen thermometer to ensure milk is at the ideal temperature (110°F/43°C) – too hot will kill the yeast, too cold won’t activate it
Let dough rise in a warm, draft-free spot (inside an unheated oven with the light on works well)
For extra shine, brush baked bread with melted butter immediately after removing from oven
Add colorful sprinkles or dyed eggs before baking for festive decoration

5. Variations

Customize your easy braided Easter bread recipe:

Fruit-filled: Add 1/2 cup raisins or dried cranberries to the dough
Citrus twist: Replace lemon zest with orange zest
Nutty version: Sprinkle chopped almonds or walnuts between braids
Chocolate lovers: Swirl in 1/4 cup chocolate chips with the cream cheese filling

If you’re looking for more creative recipe ideas, our dinner recipes section offers plenty of inspiration for your main courses too.

6. Serving Suggestions

This easy braided Easter bread shines as:

A stunning centerpiece for your Easter brunch table
Delicious French toast the next day (slice thick and soak in custard)
Perfect with afternoon tea or coffee
Gift-wrapped for friends and family (stays fresh for 3 days)

Pair it with one of our refreshing salad recipes for a complete holiday meal.

7. Storage Instructions

To maintain freshness of your easy braided Easter bread:

Store completely cooled bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days
For longer storage, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 1 month (thaw at room temperature)
Refresh day-old bread by warming in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5 minutes

8. Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this easy braided Easter bread recipe ahead?
Yes! Prepare dough through first rise, then refrigerate overnight. The next day, let it come to room temperature before shaping and final rise.

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry?
Absolutely. Use the same amount but you can mix it directly with the dry ingredients – no need to activate in liquid first.

Why is my dough not rising?
Check your yeast expiration date and ensure your milk wasn’t too hot. The rising environment should be warm (about 75-80°F/24-27°C).

For more troubleshooting tips and cooking advice, browse our soup recipes where we share many kitchen secrets.

9. Conclusion

This easy braided Easter bread recipe delivers impressive results with simple techniques. The tender, buttery dough wrapped around a luscious cream cheese filling creates a showstopping loaf that’s as delicious as it is beautiful. Whether you’re an experienced baker or trying yeast bread for the first time, this recipe will guide you to success. Make it the centerpiece of your Easter celebration and watch it disappear! If you enjoyed this recipe, you might also love our chicken recipes or beef recipes for your main course options.