Traditional Italian Easter Bread

Traditional Italian Easter Bread

4 servings
This Traditional Italian Easter Bread is a soft sweet brioche dough formed into wreaths or braided then topped with coloured eggs & sprinkles.

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons all purpose flour
    1 ¾ c
  • salt
    1 pinch
  • lemon zest
    1 tbsp
  • granulated sugar
    2 ½ tbsp
  • lukewarm milk
    ¼ c
  • active dry yeast
    1 ½ tsp
  • eggs

    room temperature

    2
  • butter

    room temperature

    ½ c
  • egg
    1
  • water
    1 tbsp
  • eggs

    uncooked and dyed whatever colour you like

    2
  • sprinkles
    2 tbsp

Directions

Brioche dough

  1. 1

    In the bowl of a stand up mixer whisk together the flour, salt, zest and sugar, make a well in the centre and add the milk and yeast, mix together with a fork. Then add the eggs. With the dough hook attachment knead for approximately 1 minute just to combine.

  2. 2

    Cover the bowl with plastic and let rise 2 hours, every 30 minutes fold both ends into the middle (repeating 4 times).

  3. 3

    When the time has passed add the butter a little at a time, on medium high speed with the dough hook, knead just to combine all the butter, then let the dough rest 10 minutes. Knead again for 5-6 minutes until smooth and the dough does not stick to the sides of the bowl. Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with plastic and refrigerate for 1-2 hours.

  4. 4

    Move the dough to a lightly floured flat surface. Divide the dough into 4 parts. Roll each part into 2 ropes (10-12 inches / 25-30cm),  join 2 ropes at the top and twist the ends one over the other (see photo), join the ends to form a wreath (circle) repeat with the remaining ropes. Place the wreaths on a parchment paper lined cookie sheet, cover and let rise in a warm draft free area for 1-2 hours or doubled in bulk.

  5. 5

    15 minutes before rising time has finished pre heat oven to 390F (195C).

  6. 6

    Add a dyed uncooked egg (if desired) to the centre of the wreath then brush the wreaths with the egg wash (be careful not to brush the eggs) and sprinkle with the sprinkles. Bake for approximately 20 minutes or until golden, or when tapped on the bottom and there is a hollow sound. Immediately move the baked buns to a wire rack to cool. Let cool before serving. Enjoy!

Egg wash

  1. 1

    In a small bowl beat together the egg and water.

Traditional Italian Easter Bread

Traditional Italian Easter Bread

40 min4 servings503 cal

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About this Recipe

Celebrate Spring with Traditional Italian Easter Bread

Embrace the vibrant spirit of Easter with this delightful Traditional Italian Easter Bread. More than just a bake, this festive sweet bread is a symbol of renewal, beautifully adorned with colored eggs and sprinkles, making it a centerpiece for any Easter celebration. Our recipe delivers a truly special treat: a wonderfully soft sweet brioche dough that’s incredibly tender and subtly sweet, perfect for welcoming spring.

What makes this Italian Easter bread truly stand out is its unique presentation. The rich brioche dough is skillfully formed into charming wreaths or elegant braids, then cradles brightly dyed uncooked eggs right in its embrace before baking. As it bakes, the eggs cook gently within the bread, creating a stunning visual contrast against the golden crust. A generous scattering of vibrant sprinkles adds that extra touch of festive joy, making it irresistible to both eyes and palate.

Tips for Perfect Italian Easter Bread

  • Achieving the Perfect Brioche: The secret to this tender brioche bread lies in using room temperature ingredients, especially the butter and eggs. This helps create a smooth, elastic dough that rises beautifully.
  • Shaping Fun: Get creative! While wreaths are traditional, braiding the dough into a long loaf or individual rolls can also be charming. Just remember to secure your dyed eggs gently into the dough before the final rise.
  • Customize Your Decor: Feel free to get creative with your decorations. Beyond sprinkles, a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk can add a lovely sheen, or you can add almond slices for a different texture.

This sweet bread isn't just for Easter morning; it's wonderful enjoyed throughout the holiday weekend. Serve it for breakfast, as a delightful dessert, or share it as a thoughtful gift. It’s a truly heartwarming tradition that brings joy to every bite.

Frequently Asked Questions