Easter Egg Bread

Easter Egg Bread is a beautifully braided, slightly sweet bread traditionally enjoyed during Easter celebrations. This festive bread is often decorated with dyed eggs nestled into the dough, symbolizing renewal and rebirth. Whether you’re looking for an Easter bread recipe with anise, a traditional Easter bread with whole eggs, or a modern twist like Easter bread with almond paste, this guide will help you create a delicious and eye-catching centerpiece for your holiday table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Festive & Traditional – A beautiful, symbolic bread perfect for Easter.
• Soft & Slightly Sweet – A rich dough flavored with vanilla, citrus, or anise.
• Customizable – Can be made with raisins, ricotta, icing, or different flavorings.
• Fun to Decorate – Dyed eggs baked into the bread add a colorful, festive touch.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Dough:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) instant yeast (Easter bread recipe with instant yeast)
• ½ cup warm milk (110°F)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon anise extract (optional, for Easter bread recipe with anise)
• Zest of 1 orange (Easter bread recipe with orange zest)

Decorations:

• 3-5 raw, dyed eggs (Easter bread with dyed eggs)
• 1 egg yolk + 1 tablespoon milk (for egg wash)
• Sprinkles (optional)

Directions

Prepare the Dough:

1. Activate the Yeast – In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm milk with a pinch of sugar. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
2. Mix the Ingredients – In a large mixing bowl (or stand mixer), combine flour, sugar, salt, and orange zest. Add the butter, eggs, vanilla, and anise extract.
3. Knead the Dough – Gradually add the yeast mixture and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. (If making Easter bread recipe without a stand mixer, knead by hand for 10-12 minutes.)
4. First Rise – Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1-2 hours until doubled in size.

Shape the Bread:

1. Divide & Braid – Punch down the dough and divide into 3 equal parts. Roll each piece into a rope, then braid together.
2. Add the Eggs – Gently tuck the dyed raw eggs into the braided dough. They will bake safely in the oven.
3. Second Rise – Cover loosely and let rise for another 30-45 minutes.

Bake the Bread:

1. Preheat Oven – Set to 350°F (175°C).
2. Egg Wash – Brush the braided dough with egg wash and sprinkle with optional sprinkles.
3. Bake – Place in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Rising Time: 2-2.5 hours
• Bake Time: 25-30 minutes
• Total Time: About 3 hours

Variations

• Easter Bread Recipe Without Yeast – Use baking powder instead of yeast for a quicker version.
• Easter Bread with Ricotta Cheese – Add ricotta for a moist, rich texture.
• Easter Bread Recipe with Raisins – Mix in raisins for added sweetness.
• Easter Bread with Almond Paste – Swirl almond paste into the dough for a nutty twist.
• Easter Bread Recipe with Icing – Drizzle with a simple powdered sugar glaze.

Storage & Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Warm in a 300°F oven for 5-7 minutes or microwave slices for 10 seconds.

FAQs

What is the meaning behind Easter Bread with Whole Eggs?

The eggs symbolize rebirth and renewal, making this bread a meaningful Easter tradition.

Can You Make Easter Bread Without Eggs?

Yes, substitute eggs with a non-dairy alternative, but the texture will be slightly different.

Can You Bake Two Easter Egg Breads at the Same Time?

Yes, but rotate them halfway through for even baking.

What’s the Difference Between Easter Bread and Challah?

Easter Bread vs. Challah – Challah is traditionally dairy-free, while Easter bread includes butter and sometimes milk for a richer dough.

Where Can I Buy Easter Egg Bread?

Check local bakeries or search for Easter bread near me or Easter bread for sale. Stores like Publix often carry Easter bread at Publix.

Can I Make Easter Bread in a Bread Machine?

Yes, use the dough cycle for mixing and kneading, then shape and bake separately (Easter bread in breadmaker).

Can I Use Frozen Dough for Easter Bread?

Yes, thaw and use Easter bread from frozen dough following the same shaping and baking process.

Can You Bread Something Without Eggs?

Yes, but the texture may change. For Easter bread without eggs, use a flaxseed or applesauce substitute.

Can I Use a Bread Machine for the Whole Process?

Yes, if your machine allows baking, follow an Easter bread recipe for breadmaker for an easy version.

What’s the Best Easter Bread Recipe on YouTube?

There are many great tutorials available—search Easter bread recipe on YouTube to find step-by-step guides.

Conclusion

This Easter Egg Bread is a festive, slightly sweet bread that brings tradition and flavor to your Easter table. Whether you enjoy a classic Easter bread with an egg in the middle, a modern Easter bread with almond paste, or a simple Easter bread in a bread machine, this recipe is a delicious way to celebrate. Try different variations and enjoy the beauty and symbolism of this cherished holiday bread!