Name: Easy Braided Easter Bread
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 2 h 30 min
Ingredients: 4 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast; 1/2 cup warm milk (110°F); 3 large eggs (room temperature); 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 tsp salt; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 egg yolk + 1 tbsp water (for egg wash); Colored sprinkles or dyed eggs for decoration

Easy Braided Easter Bread: A Golden, Sweet Tradition for Your Holiday Table 🐰🥖✨

1. Introduction

Celebrate Easter with this stunning Easy Braided Easter Bread recipe that will become the centerpiece of your holiday table! This sweet, golden loaf isn’t just delicious – it’s a beautiful edible decoration that carries centuries of tradition. Whether you’re continuing a family recipe or starting a new Easter tradition, this braided bread will impress your guests with its gorgeous appearance and irresistible flavor.

The dough is enriched with farm-fresh eggs and creamy butter, creating a tender crumb that’s perfect for tearing and sharing with loved ones. Topped with colorful sprinkles or nestled with dyed eggs, it’s as much a decoration as it is a treat. Our step-by-step guide makes this classic baking project surprisingly simple, even for beginners!

Golden braided Easter bread with sprinkles, ready for serving.

2. Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create your Easy Braided Easter Bread masterpiece:

4 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
1/2 cup granulated sugar (for that perfect sweetness)
1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast (the magic leavener)
1/2 cup warm milk (110°F – crucial for yeast activation)
3 large eggs (room temperature – vital for proper mixing)
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (for rich flavor)
1 tsp salt (to balance the sweetness)
1 tsp vanilla extract (or try almond for variation)
1 egg yolk + 1 tbsp water (for that gorgeous golden sheen)
Colored sprinkles or dyed eggs for decoration (get creative!)

Looking for more brunch inspiration to complement your Easter bread? We’ve got you covered!

3. Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a small bowl, combine warm milk (test the temperature with your wrist – it should feel comfortably warm), 1 tablespoon of sugar, and yeast. Let this mixture sit undisturbed for 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy and fragrant. This crucial step proves your yeast is alive and ready to make your Easy Braided Easter Bread rise to perfection. If your mixture doesn’t foam, your yeast may be expired and you’ll need to start fresh.

Wooden bowl with yeast mixture for Easy Braided Easter Bread.

Step 2: Make the Dough

In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the dough hook attachment, combine flour, remaining sugar, and salt. Create a well in the center and add the foamy yeast mixture, eggs, softened butter (cut into pieces for easier incorporation), and vanilla. Mix on low speed for 2-3 minutes until the ingredients just come together, then increase to medium speed for 5-7 minutes until the dough becomes smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky but not sticky. The dough should clean the sides of the bowl when ready.

For those who love sweet treats, this dough can also be used to make delicious cinnamon rolls!

Stand mixer kneading dough for Easy Braided Easter Bread.

Step 3: Let the Dough Rise

Transfer the kneaded dough to a lightly greased bowl (use butter or neutral oil), turning once to coat all sides. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or a clean, damp kitchen towel. Find a warm, draft-free spot in your kitchen (near the oven or on top of the refrigerator works well) and let it rise for 1-1.5 hours or until doubled in size. This slow fermentation develops wonderful flavor and creates the perfect airy texture for your Easy Braided Easter Bread.

Risen dough covered with a towel for Easy Braided Easter Bread.

Step 4: Braid and Bake

Gently punch down the risen dough to release air bubbles. Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and divide into 3 equal pieces using a bench scraper or sharp knife. Roll each piece into a smooth 16-inch rope of even thickness. If the dough resists, let it rest for 5 minutes before continuing.

Pinch the three ropes together at one end and braid them loosely (a tight braid may tear during baking). When you reach the end, pinch the strands together and tuck both ends underneath for a neat appearance. Carefully transfer the braid to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover lightly and let rise for 30 minutes until puffy.

Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Whisk together the egg yolk and water for the egg wash. Just before baking, gently brush the entire surface of the braid with the egg wash (this creates that beautiful golden color). Add sprinkles now if using, or place dyed raw eggs in the braid crevices (they’ll cook as the bread bakes). Bake for 25-30 minutes until deeply golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. For extra shine, brush with melted butter immediately after removing from the oven.

For more traditional Easter bread variations, check out this classic recipe from our friends at AllRecipes.

Braiding dough strands for Easy Braided Easter Bread.

4. Tips for Perfect Easter Bread

Temperature matters: Use room temperature ingredients (especially eggs and butter) for better dough consistency and even rising
Dough too sticky? Add flour 1 tablespoon at a time during kneading until it just cleans the bowl
Extra shine: Brush with melted butter immediately after baking for a glossy finish
Egg decoration: Add dyed raw eggs before the final rise so they bake securely into the bread
Clean slices: Let bread cool completely (about 1 hour) before slicing for neat cuts
Proofing box alternative: Turn your oven to “warm” for 1 minute, then turn off and place dough inside to rise

5. Creative Variations

Citrus twist: Add 2 tablespoons of lemon or orange zest to the dough
Nutty flavor: Substitute almond or orange blossom extract for the vanilla
Fruit-studded: Knead in 1/2 cup raisins, currants, or chopped dried apricots
Individual servings: Divide dough into 12 pieces and make mini braided loaves (bake 15-20 minutes)
Pastel colors: Divide dough and knead in gel food coloring before braiding
Cream cheese filling: Spread a sweetened cream cheese mixture between the braids before baking

Looking for more holiday meal ideas to serve with your Easter bread? We’ve got plenty of inspiration!

6. Serving Suggestions

This Easy Braided Easter Bread is delicious served slightly warm with softened butter, honey, or your favorite fruit preserves. It makes a stunning centerpiece for your Easter brunch table when paired with:

Scrambled eggs or a quiche
Fresh fruit salad with mint
Cured meats and cheeses
Smoked salmon with cream cheese
A selection of spring salads

The leftovers (if you’re lucky enough to have any!) make exceptional French toast the next morning – simply slice, dip in egg mixture, and cook as usual.

7. Storage Instructions

Store your Easy Braided Easter Bread at room temperature in an airtight container or tightly wrapped in plastic for up to 3 days. For longer storage:

Freezing: Wrap tightly in plastic then foil and freeze for up to 1 month
Refreshing: Thaw frozen bread at room temperature, then refresh in a 300°F oven for 5 minutes
Day-old bread: Transform into bread pudding or strata for a delicious second act

8. Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this bread ahead of time?

Absolutely! You have two great options for advance preparation:

Prepare the dough through the first rise, then refrigerate overnight (up to 24 hours). The next day, let it come to room temperature (about 1 hour) before shaping and proceeding with the recipe.
Bake the bread completely 1 day ahead. Store at room temperature, then refresh in a 300°F oven for 5-8 minutes before serving.

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry?

Yes! Use the same amount of instant yeast but you can mix it directly with the dry ingredients – no need to proof it in liquid first. The rising times may be slightly shorter with instant yeast.

Why didn’t my bread rise properly?

Several factors could be at play:

Expired yeast (always check the date)
Milk that was too hot (over 115°F can kill yeast)
Cold drafty rising area (find a warm spot)
Old flour (can affect gluten development)
Too much salt (which can inhibit yeast)

Can I make this without a stand mixer?

Definitely! Mix the ingredients with a wooden spoon until combined, then turn out onto a floured surface and knead by hand for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. This traditional method can be quite therapeutic!

9. Conclusion

This Easy Braided Easter Bread recipe is more than just food – it’s an edible celebration of spring, renewal, and family traditions. With its golden crust, tender interior, and festive presentation, it’s a baking project that’s as rewarding to make as it is to eat and share.

Whether you’re an experienced baker or trying your first yeast bread, this approachable recipe delivers impressive results that will have everyone reaching for seconds. The aroma filling your kitchen as it bakes is simply unforgettable! For more about our kitchen-tested recipes or to connect with our team, we’re always here to help with your culinary adventures.

From our family to yours, we wish you a joyful Easter season filled with delicious food and cherished moments. Happy baking!