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Italian Easter Bread With Dyed Eggs


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  • Author: Mary
  • Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 1 large loaf (8-10 servings) 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Celebrate Easter with this Italian Easter Bread with Dyed Eggs! This traditional, sweet, braided bread is adorned with colorful, hard-boiled eggs, symbolizing the resurrection. It’s soft, slightly sweet, and perfect for breakfast or dessert. The beautiful braided design and vibrant eggs make it a festive centerpiece for your Easter table. Whether you enjoy it with your family or give it as a gift, this bread is sure to bring joy and flavor to your holiday celebration.


Ingredients

Scale

For the Bread Dough:

  • 4 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for kneading
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup milk, warmed to 110°F
  • 1/2 cup water, warmed to 110°F
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon orange zest (optional, for flavor)
  • 1/4 cup sugar (for sprinkling)

For the Topping:

 

  • 46 hard-boiled eggs (dyed in pastel colors for Easter)
  • 1 egg yolk (for egg wash)

Instructions

  • Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, combine the warm milk, warm water, and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the mixture and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.

  • Mix the Ingredients: In a separate large bowl, whisk together the flour, remaining sugar, and salt. Add the yeast mixture, softened butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix everything until the dough begins to come together.

  • Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 5-8 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

  • Shape the Bread: Punch down the dough and divide it into 3 equal portions. Roll each portion into a long rope (about 12-15 inches long). Twist the ropes together into a braid and shape it into a circle. Pinch the ends together to form a round loaf.

  • Add the Dyed Eggs: Gently press the hard-boiled, dyed eggs into the dough. You can place them symmetrically around the braid or in any pattern you prefer. Make sure the eggs are securely nestled into the dough.

  • Let the Dough Rise Again: Cover the braided loaf with a clean towel and let it rise again for about 30-45 minutes, or until it has puffed up.

  • Prepare the Egg Wash: In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolk with a tablespoon of water. Brush this mixture over the entire loaf to give it a golden color when baking.

  • Bake the Bread: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the bread on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

 

  • Cool and Serve: Allow the bread to cool on a wire rack. Once cooled, slice the bread and serve. The dyed eggs can be eaten along with the bread or kept as a festive decoration.

Notes

  • The dyed eggs are symbolic and can be eaten along with the bread or kept as part of the decoration.
  • You can adjust the flavor of the bread by adding lemon zest or a sprinkle of cinnamon if you prefer.

 

  • This bread can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Prep Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (for rising time)
  • Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
  • Category: Bread, Easter, Holiday
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: Italian