Celebrate Easter with this delicious Traditional Italian Easter Bread, a sweet and colorful addition to your holiday table.

Scale

4 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 cup granulated sugar

2 teaspoons active dry yeast

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup milk warmed

1/4 cup unsalted butter melted

3 large eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 teaspoon grated lemon zest

1 teaspoon grated orange zest

Dyed Easter eggs for decoration

Egg wash (1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon water) for brushing

In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk and active dry yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until bubbly.
In another bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt. Add the melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and orange zest to the yeast mixture, then mix.
Gradually stir in the flour mixture until a dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth.
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Punch down the dough and shape it into a round loaf. Place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Create a cross shape with the dough using a knife. Brush the egg wash over the top and place the dyed Easter eggs in the dough.
Cover and let it rise for another 30 minutes while preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown. Let it cool before serving.

This bread can be enjoyed fresh or toasted. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Keywords: Traditional Italian Easter Bread Recipe,Easter bread,Italian bread,holiday baking