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Italian Easter Bread

Grandma's Italian Easter Bread: A Festive Family Tradition

Italian Easter Bread is a cherished family tradition, bringing warmth and flavor to festive gatherings.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Rising Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings: 12 slices
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 180
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Dough
  • 3 large eggs Essential for binding, ensure they're at room temperature.
  • 2 large eggs Key ingredient for moisture and flavor.
  • 2/3 cup warm 2% milk Substitute with almond milk for a dairy-free option.
  • 2 tablespoons butter Melted to add softness.
  • 2 tablespoons sugar Sweetens the dough.
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons salt Enhances overall flavor.
  • 3 cups bread flour Provides structure.
  • 1 package (1/4 ounce) quick-rise yeast Leavening agent for rise.
  • 1 tablespoon canola oil Adds tenderness to the crust.
For the Topping
  • 1 large egg For egg wash, adds golden finish.
  • 1 tablespoon water Thins egg wash for application.
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds or poppy seeds Adds texture and flavor.
For the Decorative Eggs
  • assorted food coloring Used for dyeing hard-boiled eggs.

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl
  • pot
  • bread machine
  • oven
  • wire rack

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. Prepare the Eggs: Hard-boil the eggs in cold water, bring to boil, cover for 15 minutes, then cool in an ice bath.
  2. Mix the Dough: In a bowl or bread machine, layer warm milk, sugar, salt, eggs, melted butter, flour, yeast, and oil. Mix and knead until smooth and slightly tacky.
  3. Shape the Dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface, punch down, divide into three portions, and roll each into a 15-inch rope.
  4. Braid the Loaf: Braid the three ropes, leave space to tuck in dyed eggs.
  5. Apply Egg Wash: Whisk egg and water, brush over the braided dough, sprinkle with seeds.
  6. Let it Rise: Cover with a towel, let rise until doubled, about 30 minutes. Preheat oven to 350°F.
  7. Bake: Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped.
  8. Cool and Serve: Let cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 180kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 5gFat: 6gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 80mgFiber: 1gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 300IUCalcium: 50mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Ensure all ingredients are prepared and at room temperature for best results. Store properly for ideal texture.

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