Grazed

Delicious Easter Bread – a recipe that blends tradition and flavors, perfect for holidays or special moments

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 25-30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 5 minutes
Number of servings: 12 Easter breads

In every corner of the world, the kitchen revives memories and traditions, and Easter bread is a perfect example of a recipe that brings family and friends together. Whether served at festive meals or simply as a delicious snack, this Easter bread recipe is simple and full of flavor. Get ready to enjoy a quick, easy-to-make dessert that will surely impress all your loved ones.

Ingredients

- 500 g flour
- 40 g fresh yeast
- 30 g sugar
- 50 ml oil
- 4 eggs
- 300 ml lukewarm milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Grated zest of one lemon
- 1 vanilla essence
- 1 egg for brushing the bread
- Optional: poppy seeds for decoration

Preparing the dough

1. Dissolving the ingredients: In a large bowl, add the lukewarm milk (not hot!) and dissolve the yeast, sugar, and salt. It’s important that the milk is lukewarm to activate the yeast, but not so hot that it kills it. Mix well until the yeast is completely dissolved.

2. Adding the flour: Start adding the flour gradually, mixing continuously with a spatula or wooden spoon. The flour should be of good quality, so feel free to choose a type 000 white flour for a fluffier dough.

3. Kneading: Once all the flour is incorporated, start kneading the dough. It’s time to put your energy into action! Knead for 10-15 minutes until the dough becomes elastic and smooth. If you notice it’s too sticky, you can add a little flour, but be careful not to overdo it.

4. Adding the wet ingredients: In another bowl, lightly beat the eggs, then gradually add them to the dough along with the oil. Continue kneading until all the ingredients are completely combined.

5. Letting it rise: Place the dough in a bowl greased with a little oil, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 45 minutes, or until it doubles in volume. This is the moment to enjoy the wait – it already smells good, doesn’t it?

Shaping and baking the Easter breads

6. Shaping the breads: After the dough has risen, turn it out onto a lightly floured work surface. Divide the dough into small pieces, about the size of a golf ball. Take each piece and roll it out into a longer strip, which you will twist into spirals.

7. Arranging in the tray: Line a baking tray with butter or parchment paper. Place the Easter breads in the tray, leaving a little space between them to allow for expansion during baking.

8. Brushing with egg: Beat an egg and brush each Easter bread with a pastry brush. This step will give a beautiful golden color to your breads. If you like, you can sprinkle a little poppy seeds on top for added flavor and texture.

9. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and place the tray with the breads inside. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until they turn golden and fluffy. You can check if they are done with a simple test: gently tap the bottom of one of the breads; if it sounds hollow, they are ready!

Serving and variations

Easter bread is delicious both warm and cold, but for a truly special experience, I recommend serving it with a vanilla sauce or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a contrast of textures and temperatures. You can also experiment by adding different flavors to the dough: a pinch of cinnamon or a bit of nutmeg can transform the Easter bread into a sophisticated dessert.

Nutritional benefits

This recipe is a good source of carbohydrates, providing energy and supporting daily activities. The eggs add essential proteins, while the oil provides healthy fats. Additionally, the lemon zest adds a touch of vitamins and antioxidants for a health boost.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use dry yeast instead of fresh yeast?
Yes, you can use dry yeast. Use about 14 g of dry yeast to replace the 40 g of fresh yeast.

2. How can I store the Easter bread?
The Easter bread stores well in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days. You can freeze it for longer storage, making sure it is well wrapped.

3. What can I do if the dough doesn’t rise?
Make sure the yeast is active and that you have left the dough in a warm and humid place. If it’s too cold, the yeast won’t activate properly.

Conclusion

Now that you have all the necessary information, it’s time to get cooking! This Easter bread recipe will not only fill your home with delightful aromas but will also create unforgettable memories around the table. Whether you serve it with family or give it as a gift to friends, the Easter bread will bring a smile to everyone’s face. Enjoy!