Italian Easter Bread Recipe – Soft, Sweet, and Citrusy Delight

There’s something magical about the smell of freshly baked bread filling your kitchen. It’s comforting, warm, and nostalgic all at once. And when it comes to holiday baking, Italian Easter Bread takes things to a whole new level. Picture this: soft, pillowy bread with a hint of citrusy brightness from lemon and orange zest, braided into beautiful rings and decorated with vibrant, dyed Easter eggs and a sprinkle of colorful sprinkles. It’s not just a treat for the taste buds—it’s a feast for the eyes, too.

Italian Easter Bread, or Pane di Pasqua, is a traditional sweet bread served during Easter celebrations. Its origins are deeply rooted in Italian culture, symbolizing new life and resurrection, with the braided shape representing the crown of thorns worn by Jesus. Over the years, this delightful bread has become a beloved staple in households worldwide, especially during the spring holiday season. And trust me, once you try making it, it’ll become a cherished tradition in your home, too.

I remember the first time I made Italian Easter Bread. The kitchen was a mess of flour, sugar, and sprinkles, but the end result was nothing short of magical. Watching the dough rise, braiding it into beautiful rings, and nestling those brightly dyed eggs into the dough felt almost like a celebration in itself. And the best part? Sharing that warm, sweet bread with family and friends while everyone marveled at how gorgeous (and delicious) it was.

But here’s the thing—making Italian Easter Bread is not as complicated as it might seem. It’s a straightforward recipe that doesn’t require any fancy skills, just a bit of patience and a whole lot of love. So, whether you’re looking to start a new Easter tradition or just want to enjoy some homemade sweet bread, this recipe is going to be a winner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love this Italian Easter Bread recipe for so many reasons, but let’s break down why it’s such a must-try. First and foremost, the flavor is absolutely divine. The combination of rich, buttery dough and bright, citrusy notes from the lemon and orange zest makes each bite feel like a celebration of spring. It’s sweet but not overly so, which means it’s perfect for breakfast, dessert, or even a mid-day snack with a steaming cup of coffee or tea.

Another reason you’ll fall in love with this recipe is its visual appeal. Those braided rings, topped with colorful sprinkles and bright Easter eggs, are sure to make everyone’s eyes widen with delight. It’s the kind of dish that looks impressive enough to be the centerpiece of your holiday table, but it’s actually quite simple to make.

Let’s not forget about the texture. The bread is soft, fluffy, and slightly dense, with a light, tender crumb that melts in your mouth. It’s the kind of bread that you can easily pull apart and savor piece by piece. And the way it fills your kitchen with the sweet, comforting aroma of freshly baked bread? That alone is worth the effort.

Lastly, this recipe is surprisingly forgiving. Even if you’re new to bread-making, you’ll find the process straightforward and manageable. Plus, it’s a fun activity to do with kids or friends, especially when it comes to dying the eggs and decorating the bread. It’s a hands-on, creative experience that results in something beautiful and delicious.

Whether you’re planning to make this bread as a gift, a holiday centerpiece, or just a treat for yourself, you’re going to love how this recipe comes together. And more importantly, you’re going to love sharing it with the people you care about.

Health Benefits

While Italian Easter Bread is undeniably a treat, it also offers some nutritional benefits, especially if you make it with high-quality ingredients. The bread itself is rich in carbohydrates, which are a primary source of energy for the body. And if you’re serving this bread as part of a balanced meal, it can contribute to a satisfying and energizing breakfast or snack.

One of the standout ingredients in this recipe is the whole milk. Whole milk provides essential nutrients like calcium, protein, and vitamin D, which are crucial for maintaining strong bones and overall health. The butter used in the dough also adds richness and a small amount of fat, which helps keep you feeling full and satisfied.

The recipe’s use of eggs adds even more protein, along with essential vitamins like B12 and choline, which support brain health and metabolism. Additionally, the eggs contribute to the bread’s tender crumb and beautiful golden color when baked.

Now, let’s talk about the citrus zest. Both lemon and orange zest contain small amounts of vitamins, particularly vitamin C, which is known for its antioxidant properties. While the zest itself is used primarily for flavor, it does add a subtle nutritional boost to the bread.

For those who are conscious of sugar intake, it’s worth noting that this bread is sweetened with just a bit of granulated sugar. It’s not overly sugary, which makes it a more balanced option compared to other sweet treats. However, if you prefer a slightly healthier version, you can always experiment with reducing the sugar or using alternatives like honey or maple syrup.

Additionally, if you want to increase the nutritional value of this bread, you can swap out some of the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour. This will boost the fiber content and add more nutrients like iron, magnesium, and B vitamins. Just keep in mind that whole wheat flour can make the bread a bit denser, so it’s best to start with a small substitution (like one cup of whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose) and see how you like the result.

While Italian Easter Bread is a festive treat that’s best enjoyed in moderation, it’s comforting to know that it’s not completely devoid of nutritional value. When paired with other nutritious foods as part of a balanced diet, this sweet bread can absolutely fit into a healthy lifestyle.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

One of the best things about this recipe is that it doesn’t take all day to make. Sure, there’s some waiting involved for the dough to rise, but most of the process is hands-off, which gives you plenty of time to prepare other dishes or just relax.

Preparation Time:

• Prep Time: 40 minutes
• Resting Time: 1 hour, 15 minutes (combined)
• Bake Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 2 hours, 15 minutes

Servings:
This recipe makes about 8 individual braided bread rings. Each ring serves one person, but they’re generous servings, so you could easily split one if you prefer smaller portions.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 10 grams
• Carbohydrates: 58 grams
• Fat: 9 grams
• Fiber: 2 grams
• Sugar: 12 grams

Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary depending on the specific ingredients and decorations you use. For example, adding more sprinkles or swapping the white flour for whole wheat flour will alter the nutritional profile slightly.

Now, let’s get into the fun part—making this beautiful Italian Easter Bread from scratch. It’s easier than you might think, and the end result is absolutely worth every minute of effort.

Ingredients List

To make this delightful Italian Easter Bread, you’ll need a handful of simple, easy-to-find ingredients. This recipe is all about combining rich, buttery flavors with the fresh, bright notes of citrus. Let’s break down what you’ll need:

For the Dough:

• 1 cup whole milk – Adds moisture, richness, and flavor to the dough. Make sure it’s warm (not boiling) to help activate the yeast.
• 1/4 cup butter – Provides a soft, tender texture and buttery taste. Melted and slightly cooled before mixing.
• 4 cups all-purpose flour (divided) – The base of the bread, providing structure. You’ll start with 2 cups and gradually add more as needed to achieve a smooth, non-sticky dough.
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the bread without making it overly sweet. It also feeds the yeast, helping the dough rise beautifully.
• 2 1/4 teaspoons rapid-rise instant yeast (1 package) – Essential for getting that light, fluffy texture. Instant yeast works quickly and saves you time.
• Zest of 1 lemon – Adds a bright, zesty flavor that perfectly complements the sweetness of the bread.
• Zest of 1 orange – Balances the lemon zest with a hint of sweet, citrusy aroma.
• 2 eggs – Adds richness, moisture, and structure to the dough. They also help give the bread its lovely golden color.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds a touch of warmth and depth to the flavor profile.

For the Egg Wash:

• 1 egg – Beaten for that beautiful golden shine on the bread when it bakes.
• 1 teaspoon milk – Helps thin the egg wash slightly, making it easier to brush onto the dough.

Decorations:

• Dyed Easter eggs (uncooked, NOT hardboiled) – These are nestled into the dough before baking. They cook safely in the oven and look absolutely stunning once baked.
• Colorful sprinkles – For a fun, festive touch that adds a bit of sweetness and crunch.

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, it’s time to dive into the actual bread-making process. Don’t worry—I’ll guide you every step of the way.

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions

Making Italian Easter Bread might look intricate, but once you break it down into simple steps, it’s actually a breeze. Let’s get started.

Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

• In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, rapid-rise instant yeast, lemon zest, and orange zest.
• Give everything a good stir until the ingredients are evenly distributed. The zest should be fragrant and well-mixed with the flour.

Step 2: Warm the Milk and Butter

• In a small saucepan, heat the whole milk and butter over medium heat until the butter is melted and the milk is warm (around 110°F to 115°F). It should be warm to the touch but not hot.
• If you overheat the mixture, let it cool down a bit before adding it to the flour mixture, as too much heat can kill the yeast.

Step 3: Mix the Dough

• To the flour mixture, add the eggs, vanilla extract, and the warm milk and butter mixture.
• Using a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook, mix on medium speed until the ingredients are well combined and a sticky dough begins to form.
• Gradually add the remaining 2 cups of flour, about 1/2 cup at a time, until the dough becomes smooth, soft, and only slightly sticky. You may need slightly more or less flour depending on the humidity in your kitchen.

Step 4: Knead the Dough

• Continue kneading the dough in the mixer for about 8 minutes, or knead by hand on a lightly floured surface for about 10 minutes.
• The dough should be smooth, elastic, and bounce back slightly when poked with your finger. If it’s too sticky, add a tablespoon of flour at a time until you achieve the right consistency.

Step 5: Let the Dough Rest

• Lightly grease a large mixing bowl and place the dough inside. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap.
• Let the dough rest for 15 minutes. This brief resting period helps the gluten relax, making it easier to shape and braid later on.

Step 6: Shape and Braid the Dough

• Transfer the dough to a floured surface and divide it into 8 equal pieces.
• Roll each piece into a long rope about 11 inches in length. If the dough resists rolling, let it rest for a few minutes to relax the gluten.
• Take two ropes at a time, pinch the ends together, and braid them. Once braided, shape the braid into a ring and pinch the ends together to seal.
• Repeat the process with the remaining dough until you have four braided rings.

Step 7: Arrange and Let the Dough Rise

• Place the braided rings on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between them to allow for rising.
• Cover the rings loosely with plastic wrap and let them rise in a warm, draft-free area for 30 minutes to 1 hour, or until they’ve doubled in size.

Step 8: Preheat the Oven

• While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). The oven should be fully preheated before you begin baking.

Step 9: Prepare the Egg Wash and Decorate

• In a small bowl, beat together the egg and milk to make the egg wash.
• Brush each ring generously with the egg wash. This will give the bread a beautiful, shiny golden-brown finish.
• Nestle the dyed, uncooked Easter eggs gently into the center of each braided ring. The eggs will cook safely while the bread bakes.
• Sprinkle colorful sprinkles over the dough for a festive touch.

Step 10: Bake the Bread

• Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the bread for 20 minutes, rotating the sheet halfway through for even baking.
• The bread is done when it turns a deep golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Step 11: Cool and Serve

• Remove the bread from the oven and transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
• Allow the bread to cool before serving to allow the flavors to fully develop and to avoid breaking apart the delicate braids.
• Serve the bread warm or at room temperature. It’s perfect on its own or with a little butter spread on top.

This bread is all about the experience of making and sharing something special. And once you see those gorgeous, golden-brown braided rings with vibrant eggs nestled in their centers, you’ll know your effort was worth it.

How to Serve

Italian Easter Bread is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delight for the palate. The beauty of this bread lies in its versatility. Whether you’re serving it as a breakfast treat, a dessert, or a festive snack, there are countless ways to enjoy it. Here are some serving suggestions to make the most of this gorgeous bread:

Breakfast Spread: Start your Easter morning with a slice of this bread served alongside a warm cup of coffee, tea, or hot chocolate. The sweet, citrusy flavor pairs perfectly with a creamy, hot beverage. You can also spread a little butter, honey, or fruit preserves on each slice for added sweetness.

Brunch Delight: This bread makes a stunning addition to your brunch table. Serve it alongside scrambled eggs, turkey bacon, fresh fruits, and even some yogurt. The slight sweetness of the bread complements savory dishes really well.

Holiday Centerpiece: If you’re hosting an Easter gathering, place the braided bread rings on a large platter lined with colorful napkins or greenery. The vibrant dyed eggs and sprinkles will make your table look festive and inviting.

Dessert Option: While traditionally served as bread, this can also work beautifully as a dessert. Pair it with sweet mascarpone cheese or even a dollop of whipped cream topped with fresh berries for a delightful after-dinner treat.

Gifting: Since this recipe makes multiple rings, why not share the joy by gifting a couple to friends, family, or neighbors? Wrap them in clear cellophane bags, tie them with ribbons, and add a handwritten note to spread some Easter cheer.

No matter how you choose to serve this bread, its soft, slightly sweet crumb with bursts of citrus will impress everyone at the table. And the best part? It’s as delicious as it is beautiful.

Pairing Suggestions

While Italian Easter Bread is delicious on its own, you can elevate the experience by pairing it with complementary dishes and beverages. Here are some pairing ideas to make your Easter celebration extra special:

Hot Beverages: Pairing this bread with a warm beverage is a classic move.

• Coffee: The slightly bitter, rich notes of coffee contrast beautifully with the sweet, citrusy bread. Opt for a smooth espresso or a creamy cappuccino for the ultimate match.
• Tea: If you prefer tea, go for something light and fragrant like Earl Grey or chamomile. The floral and citrus notes will complement the bread’s flavor profile wonderfully.
• Hot Chocolate: If you’re serving this bread to kids or those with a sweet tooth, hot chocolate with a dollop of whipped cream makes a decadent pairing.

Cold Beverages:

• Fresh Orange Juice: Enhance the citrus notes in the bread by serving it with a tall glass of freshly squeezed orange juice. It’s a refreshing way to brighten up your breakfast or brunch.
• Milk: A classic choice, especially for those who love a simple and comforting pairing.

Savory Dishes:

• Eggs and Cheese: Serve slices of Italian Easter Bread with creamy scrambled eggs or even an omelet filled with cheese, spinach, or smoked salmon. The rich, savory flavors provide a wonderful contrast to the bread’s sweetness.
• Charcuterie Board: If you’re feeling adventurous, try serving the bread alongside a variety of cheeses, dried fruits, and nuts. The sweet bread works surprisingly well with creamy brie, salty feta, or sharp cheddar.

Spreads and Toppings:

• Butter and Honey: For a simple and classic approach, serve the bread with a small dish of softened butter and honey. The creamy, sweet combination is pure perfection.
• Nutella or Chocolate Spread: For a more decadent option, try spreading a thin layer of Nutella on a warm slice of bread. The hazelnut-chocolate pairing is an indulgent treat.

No matter how you choose to pair your Italian Easter Bread, the goal is to enhance the experience with flavors that complement its rich, citrusy notes. Whether you’re going for something sweet, savory, or creamy, you really can’t go wrong.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

Now that you’ve made your beautiful Italian Easter Bread, let’s talk about how to store it properly so you can enjoy it for days to come. This bread does have a short shelf life since it’s homemade and free from preservatives, but with the right methods, you can keep it fresh and delicious.

Storage:

• Room Temperature: Italian Easter Bread is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store it at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Place the bread in an airtight container or wrap it tightly with plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out.
• Avoid storing the bread in the refrigerator, as it can make the bread go stale more quickly.

Freezing:

• If you want to store the bread for a longer period, freezing is your best bet.
• Once the bread has completely cooled, wrap each bread ring individually in plastic wrap and then place them in zip-top freezer bags or airtight containers.
• Label each bag with the date to keep track of freshness. The bread will stay good in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating:

• To enjoy the bread again, simply allow it to thaw at room temperature for a few hours if frozen.
• For a warm, freshly-baked experience, place the bread in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-10 minutes. This will help revive its softness and flavor without drying it out.
• If you’re short on time, you can also warm individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, but be careful not to overheat them, as this can make the bread rubbery.

Properly storing and reheating your Italian Easter Bread ensures that every bite remains soft, fluffy, and flavorful. And honestly, who wouldn’t want to have a stash of this beautiful bread ready to go whenever the craving strikes?

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Italian Easter Bread isn’t difficult, but there are a few pitfalls that can trip you up if you’re not careful. Here are some common mistakes to avoid so your bread turns out perfect every time:

Using Milk That’s Too Hot: When heating the milk and butter mixture, make sure it’s warm but not hot. The ideal temperature range is between 110°F and 115°F. If the liquid is too hot, it can kill the yeast, preventing your dough from rising properly.

Overworking the Dough: While kneading is essential for developing gluten and creating structure, over-kneading can make the bread tough and dense. Stop kneading when the dough is smooth and elastic but still soft and slightly tacky.

Adding Too Much Flour: It’s tempting to keep adding flour until the dough feels dry, but doing so can make the bread dense and dry. The dough should be soft and slightly sticky but still manageable. Always add flour gradually and stop when the dough feels just right.

Skipping the Resting Period: The resting period allows the gluten to relax, making the dough easier to shape. If you skip this step, the dough may feel too tight and resist braiding.

Using Hardboiled Eggs: Traditionally, uncooked dyed eggs are used because they cook perfectly while the bread bakes. Using hardboiled eggs can lead to overcooked, rubbery eggs. Make sure to place raw, dyed eggs into the dough before baking.

Now that you know what to avoid, you’re already on the right track to making a successful batch of Italian Easter Bread. Up next, I’ll share some pro tips to help you nail this recipe like a seasoned baker.

Pro Tips

To make sure your Italian Easter Bread turns out absolutely perfect, here are some pro tips and tricks that will elevate your baking game. These little secrets will ensure your bread is soft, flavorful, and beautifully golden every single time.

Tip 1: Use Fresh Yeast
Yeast is the powerhouse behind beautifully risen bread. Always check the expiration date on your yeast package before using it. If your yeast is old or expired, your dough won’t rise properly, and you’ll end up with a dense, heavy bread. Rapid-rise instant yeast works best for this recipe because it speeds up the rising process and delivers consistent results.

Tip 2: Don’t Rush the Rising Process
While rapid-rise yeast works quickly, it’s important not to rush the rising process. Make sure the dough rises in a warm, draft-free area. If your kitchen is too cold, you can place the dough in an oven that’s been briefly warmed (around 100°F) and then turned off. Proper rising is crucial for achieving that light, fluffy texture.

Tip 3: Perfecting the Dough Texture
Getting the right dough consistency is key. The dough should be soft, smooth, and just slightly sticky. If the dough feels too wet, add flour a tablespoon at a time until it becomes workable. However, avoid overloading it with flour, as this can make the bread dry and tough.

Tip 4: Handling the Eggs
Using uncooked, dyed eggs is traditional and safe because they cook through while the bread bakes. If you’re worried about using raw eggs, you can also use pasteurized eggs. For a more polished look, gently press the eggs into the dough, making sure they’re secure but not buried.

Tip 5: Adjusting for Sweetness
The amount of sugar in this recipe creates a mildly sweet bread that pairs well with both sweet and savory dishes. However, if you prefer a sweeter bread, you can increase the sugar by an extra tablespoon or two. Just keep in mind that more sugar can slightly affect the dough’s rising process.

Tip 6: Braiding Made Simple
If you find braiding the dough challenging, here’s a helpful trick: lightly dust your work surface and hands with flour before rolling the dough into ropes. This will prevent sticking and make the braiding process smoother. Also, don’t stress about making the braids perfect. The bread’s rustic, homemade appearance is part of its charm.

Tip 7: Add Flavorful Enhancements
Want to take your bread to the next level? Try adding cinnamon or cardamom to the dough for a warm, aromatic twist. You can also sprinkle the tops of the bread rings with a touch of coarse sugar before baking for a subtle crunch.

Tip 8: Using a Kitchen Scale
For the most accurate results, consider using a kitchen scale to measure your flour. This helps avoid overpacking the flour, which can lead to a dry, dense bread. A standard cup of flour weighs about 120 grams.

Tip 9: Checking for Doneness
To ensure your bread is fully baked, tap the bottom of each ring. It should sound hollow. If you’re still unsure, you can use a thermometer. The internal temperature of the bread should be around 190°F when done.

Tip 10: Making Ahead
If you want to get a head start on your Easter preparations, you can prepare the dough the night before and let it rise slowly in the refrigerator. The cold temperature will slow down the fermentation process, allowing you to bake the bread fresh the next morning.

By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to making Italian Easter Bread that looks and tastes like it came straight from a traditional Italian bakery. But what if you still have some lingering questions? Let’s tackle those next.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

If this is your first time making Italian Easter Bread, you probably have a few questions. Here are some of the most commonly asked questions to help you achieve the best results:

Can I Use All-Purpose Flour Instead of Bread Flour?
Yes! This recipe specifically calls for all-purpose flour, which works beautifully to create a soft and tender bread. However, if you prefer a chewier texture, you can substitute bread flour for up to half of the flour amount.

Can I Make This Bread Without Eggs?
While the eggs in the dough provide richness and structure, you can make an egg-free version by using a plant-based egg substitute or additional milk and butter. The dyed eggs used for decoration can be omitted, but you’ll lose the classic appearance.

Can I Dye the Eggs Naturally?
Absolutely! For a natural dye option, boil eggs in water with natural ingredients like beet juice (red), turmeric (yellow), spinach (green), or blueberries (blue). Let the eggs sit in the dye until they reach your desired shade.

What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Bread?
Store any leftover bread at room temperature in an airtight container or tightly wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, freeze the bread following the instructions provided earlier.

Can I Make One Large Bread Ring Instead of Several Small Ones?
Yes, you can! Instead of dividing the dough into eight pieces, divide it into three or four large pieces and braid them into one big ring. The baking time may need to be extended by about 5-10 minutes, so keep an eye on it.

Can I Add Dried Fruits or Nuts to the Dough?
Absolutely! Adding raisins, dried cranberries, or chopped nuts can enhance the flavor and texture of the bread. Just fold them into the dough before braiding.

Why Is My Dough Not Rising?
If your dough isn’t rising, it could be due to expired yeast, overly hot milk, or a cold environment. Make sure your yeast is fresh and your milk is warm, not hot. Allow the dough to rise in a warm place, and be patient.

Can I Use Gluten-Free Flour?
Yes, you can try using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. However, the texture may be slightly different, and the bread may not rise as much. Make sure to add a binding agent like xanthan gum if your gluten-free flour doesn’t already contain it.

How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
To make a dairy-free version, use plant-based milk (such as almond or oat milk) and dairy-free butter. The bread will still turn out soft and flavorful.

Can I Make This Bread Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough and let it rise in the refrigerator overnight. Simply shape and bake it the next day for fresh, warm bread.

Now that you have all your questions answered, it’s time to get baking. But before you dive in, let’s wrap this up with some final thoughts and encouragement.

Conclusion & Call to Action

Italian Easter Bread is more than just a recipe—it’s a tradition, a celebration, and a way to bring people together. Whether you’re making it for a special holiday brunch, gifting it to friends and family, or simply enjoying the process of baking something beautiful, this recipe is sure to become a cherished part of your kitchen.

The combination of buttery, slightly sweet dough infused with citrus zest, braided into stunning rings, and adorned with colorful eggs and sprinkles is nothing short of magical. And the best part? It’s easier to make than it looks. You don’t need to be a seasoned baker to achieve stunning results. Just follow the steps, enjoy the process, and don’t stress about perfection. Rustic, homemade charm is part of what makes this bread so special.

I can’t wait for you to try this Italian Easter Bread recipe! When you do, be sure to share your experience with me. I’d love to hear how it turned out, what creative twists you added, and how you chose to serve it. Drop a comment below, share your photos on social media, and tag me—I can’t wait to see your beautiful creations!

Now go on, grab your flour, zest those lemons and oranges, and let’s make something amazing. Happy baking!

Print