As the flowers begin to bloom and the sun shines brighter, I find myself yearning for the warmth of family traditions. One of my favorite symbols of spring is this vibrant Easter Bread, a delightful treat that fills the kitchen with the comforting scents of citrus and vanilla. Every braid and swirl holds a story of celebration, reminding me of festive gatherings with loved ones adorned with laughter and joy.

You’ll be pleasantly surprised by how simple it is to create this stunning centerpiece, especially as it’s graced with colorful eggs, each telling tales of hope and renewal. With its tender, pillowy texture and beautiful golden hue, this Easter Bread is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delicious way to bring a slice of tradition to your holiday table. So grab your ingredients, and let’s bake together, celebrating the spirit of Easter with a recipe that’s destined to become a family favorite!

Why is this Easter Bread Recipe a must-try?

Unique flavors: The infusion of citrus zest and a hint of vanilla make this bread an aromatic delight.
Celebrate traditions: Whether it’s the Italian version with anise or the Greek adaptation featuring mahlab, this recipe allows you to honor diverse cultural customs.
Family-friendly fun: Involving kids in decorating with colorful eggs makes it an engaging holiday activity that everyone can enjoy.
Simple steps: With easy-to-follow instructions, even novice bakers can create a show-stopping centerpiece for Easter brunch.
Versatile variations: Feel free to experiment with dried fruits or different citrus for a personal touch! This Easter Bread pairs beautifully with a spread of beautiful dishes, much like Caramel Apple Bread for a delightful gathering.

Easter Bread Recipe Ingredients

For the Dough

All-purpose flour – Provides structure to the dough; can substitute with bread flour for a chewier texture.
Rapid rise instant yeast – Facilitates quick rising of the dough; alternatively, use active dry yeast, which may require extra time to activate.
Whole milk – Adds richness and moisture; replace with almond milk or oat milk for a dairy-free option.
Butter – Contributes to a soft texture; coconut oil can be used as a dairy-free alternative.
Granulated sugar – Sweetens the bread and encourages browning; honey or maple syrup can be substitutes but may affect dough hydration.
Eggs – Enrich the dough and improve color; flaxseed meal mixed with water works as a vegan substitute.
Lemon and orange zest – Imparts a distinctive citrus aroma; other citrus options like lime or grapefruit can offer a refreshing twist.
Vanilla extract – Enhances overall flavor; try almond extract for a different taste.

For Decoration

Uncooked dyed Easter eggs – A traditional decorative touch and a symbol of Easter; consider using chocolate eggs for a kid-friendly version.
Colorful sprinkles – Adds visual appeal and festive flair; completely optional based on your preference.

With this simple Easter Bread recipe, you’ll create a beautiful centerpiece that’s sure to spark joy in your kitchen and at your holiday table!

How to Make Easter Bread

Prepare Dough: In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of flour, sugar, instant yeast, and citrus zests. Heat milk and butter until warm (about 110°F), then mix in eggs and vanilla. Stir the wet and dry ingredients together until you form a thick batter.
Knead Dough: Gradually add the remaining flour while kneading with a dough hook for approximately 8 minutes. Aim for a smooth and elastic dough that feels slightly tacky to the touch.
First Rise: Create a ball with the kneaded dough, placing it in a greased bowl. Cover it with plastic wrap and allow it to rise for 15 minutes in a warm spot.
Shape Braids: Divide the dough into 8 pieces. Roll each piece into an 11-inch rope and braid them into a ring, pinching the ends to seal.
Second Rise: Arrange the braided dough on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover it and let rise for 30-60 minutes until puffy and doubled in size.
Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F. Brush the top of the dough with egg wash, tuck an uncooked dyed egg in the center, sprinkle with colorful sprinkles, and bake for about 20 minutes until golden brown.

Optional: Serve warm topped with honey and butter for an extra special treat!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Traditional Easter Bread recipes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during the busy holiday season! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by allowing it to rise in the refrigerator overnight, enhancing the flavors and ensuring a tender texture. Additionally, you can shape and braid the dough, then place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, simply let it come to room temperature before proceeding with the egg wash and final bake. This way, your Easter Bread will be just as delicious and festive, allowing you to enjoy quality time with loved ones while celebrating!

Storage Tips for Easter Bread Recipe

Room Temperature: Store the cooled Easter Bread in a bread box or on your counter, tightly wrapped in plastic wrap, for up to 3 days to maintain its softness.
Fridge: While refrigeration isn’t ideal as it may dry out the bread, you can keep it in an airtight container for up to 1 week if necessary.
Freezer: For long-term storage, wrap the bread in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, freezing it for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
Reheating: To revive your Easter Bread, simply warm slices in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or toast them lightly for a delightful texture and flavor.

What to Serve with Easter Bread?

Create a delightful holiday spread with these perfect pairings that complement the sweet, citrusy notes of your Easter Bread.

Honey Butter: This sweet, creamy addition enhances the bread’s flavor, providing a delectable spread that everyone will love.
Herb Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies roasted to perfection brings out a savory contrast that balances the sweetness of the bread.
Traditional Easter Ham: The savory and salty profile of glazed ham offers a beautiful counterpoint, making your meal satisfying and festive.
Fruit Salad: A refreshing bowl of mixed seasonal fruits brightens the table, enhancing the bread with natural sweetness and color.
Deviled Eggs: These classic appetizers echo the festive theme of Easter Eggs while adding creamy richness, perfect for sharing.
Sparkling Wine: Celebrate with a glass of bubbly that adds a festive note and lightens the meal, enhancing the joy of any holiday gathering.
Chocolate Eggs: For an indulgent dessert, these sweet morsels provide a playful nod to the decorative eggs nestled in your bread.
Cheese Platter: A selection of soft and aged cheeses makes for a sophisticated touch, offering a delightful contrast in flavors and textures with every bite.

Expert Tips for the Best Easter Bread

Yeast Activation: Ensure your milk mixture is warm (not hot) to activate the rapid rise instant yeast properly; too hot will kill it, leading to flat bread.
Kneading Technique: Knead the dough until smooth and elastic, about 8 minutes; under-kneading can result in dense bread, so be patient!
Proper Rising: Allow the dough to rise until it doubles in size; this step is crucial for a light, airy texture in your Easter Bread.
Sealing the Braids: Pinch the ends of the braided rings tightly to keep them from falling apart during baking; this step ensures a beautiful shape.
Baking Aids: If your bread browns too quickly, tent it with aluminum foil for the latter part of baking to prevent burning while ensuring that it cooks through.
Crowd-Pleasing Presentation: Decorate with colorful sprinkles for a festive touch, but feel free to use chocolate eggs for a kid-friendly version of this Easter Bread recipe.

Easter Bread Recipe Variations

Feel free to get creative and make this recipe your own with unique twists and substitutions that suit your taste!

Citrus Swap: Replace lemon and orange zest with lime or grapefruit for a refreshing twist. The bright flavors will awaken your senses!
Dried Fruits: Add raisins, cranberries, or apricots to the dough for delightful bursts of sweetness throughout. These fruity morsels make every bite a surprising delight.
Chocolate Surprise: Fill the dough with chocolate spread or chocolate chips for a decadent version that the entire family will adore. Who can resist a chocolate-infusion in their bread?
Nutty Touch: Incorporate chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts into the braids for a satisfying crunch. This variation not only adds flavor but also creates a beautiful texture.
Herb Infusion: Sprinkle in some finely chopped fresh herbs such as rosemary or thyme for an unexpected savory note. This elegant twist takes the bread into gourmet territory!
Vegan Twist: Use flaxseed meal mixed with water as a substitute for eggs and coconut oil instead of butter for a delicious vegan rendition. Everyone deserves to enjoy the holiday spirit!
Festive Sprinkles: Swap colorful sprinkles for edible glitter or star-shaped candy for a whimsical decoration that is perfect for celebrations. This simple change can make your bread feel extra special.
Heat It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or black pepper to the dough for a subtle kick that tantalizes the tastebuds. A little spice can take your taste experience over the top!

Easter Bread Recipe FAQs

What kind of flour should I use for this Easter Bread recipe?
I recommend using all-purpose flour for the best texture, but if you prefer a chewier bite, you can substitute it with bread flour. Just remember that bread flour may absorb moisture differently, so you might need to adjust the liquid slightly.

How long can I store my Easter Bread, and what is the best method?
After allowing your Easter Bread to cool, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like to keep it longer, wrap it in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil, and freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving!

Can I freeze the Easter Bread? How should I do it?
Absolutely! To freeze your Easter Bread, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, ensuring no air can get in, and then wrap it again in aluminum foil. This double-wrapping will protect it from freezer burn. To enjoy, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight or let it sit at room temperature for a few hours before indulging.

What should I do if my dough isn’t rising properly?
If your dough isn’t rising, it could be due to the yeast being inactive. Make sure your milk isn’t too hot or too cold when mixed. If the yeast didn’t bubble when activated, it might be expired. For best results, always check your yeast before using! If everything seems fine but the dough is still flat, try moving it to a warmer place to rise, covering it better if needed.

Is this Easter Bread recipe suitable for people with allergies?
This recipe primarily contains flour, dairy, and eggs, which are common allergens. For a dairy-free version, substitute whole milk with almond or oat milk and replace butter with coconut oil. To make it vegan, you can use flaxseed meal mixed with water instead of eggs and ensure your other ingredients are egg-free. Always check packaging for safety regarding allergies!

Can I add different flavors or ingredients to this Easter Bread recipe?
Definitely! Feel free to swap the lemon and orange zests for lime or grapefruit for a citrus twist. You could also incorporate dried fruits like cranberries or raisins for extra sweetness, or even fill the dough with cinnamon sugar or chocolate spread for a decadent touch! The more the merrier when it comes to flavoring your bread!