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–+ servings
Sweet Italian Easter Bread

Deliciously Sweet Italian Easter Bread Recipe to Brighten Your Holiday

This Sweet Italian Easter Bread embodies cherished family traditions with its fluffy texture and zesty flavors, making it the perfect centerpiece for your holiday celebrations.
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Prep Time 1 hour
Cook Time 30 minutes
Rising Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time 3 hours
Servings: 12 slices
Course: Baking
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Dough
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour Can substitute with bread flour.
  • 1 cup sugar Can use honey or maple syrup.
  • 2 packets active dry yeast Ensure yeast is fresh.
  • 1 teaspoon salt Can be omitted for sodium-restricted diets.
  • 1 cup milk Can substitute with almond or soy milk.
  • 2 large eggs Traditionally can use raw, dyed eggs.
  • ½ cup melted butter Margarine can substitute, but flavor may vary.
For Flavoring
  • 1 teaspoon anise extract Can substitute with fennel seeds.
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest Orange zest is a nice alternative.
For Decoration (Optional)
  • ½ cup colorful sprinkles For festive appearance.
  • 1 large dyed egg Symbolizes new life.

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Baking Sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • wire rack

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Gently warm 1 cup of milk, sprinkle in 2 packets of active dry yeast, and let it sit until frothy.
  2. In a bowl, whisk together 4 cups of flour, 1 cup of sugar, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Add the milk mixture, 2 beaten eggs, ½ cup of melted butter, 1 teaspoon of anise extract, and lemon zest. Stir until a rough dough forms.
  3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise for 1-2 hours until doubled in size.
  5. Punch down the dough, divide it into 6 pieces, shape into ropes, and braid to form a loaf.
  6. Place the braided loaf on a baking sheet, cover loosely, and let it rise for 30-60 minutes.
  7. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
  8. Let bread cool, then glaze with powdered sugar and milk mixture, adding sprinkles if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 38gProtein: 5gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 12gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Best served warm or at room temperature. Can customize with fruits, nuts, or different glazes.

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