What is the meaning behind the colored eggs?

The colorful eggs baked into Italian Easter Bread are symbols of rebirth and new life , perfectly fitting the spirit of Easter and spring. Nestled inside the braided bread, these eggs transform the loaf into a festive centerpiece full of meaning.

Can I make Italian Easter Bread without a stand mixer?

Absolutely! While a stand mixer makes kneading easier, you can hand-knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. It’s a bit more work but very satisfying—plus, you get to connect with the dough just like traditional bakers.

Can I make Italian Easter Bread ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough and let it rise overnight in the fridge for deeper flavor. The braided loaf can be baked the next day or even frozen after baking. Just reheat gently before serving to enjoy that fresh, soft texture.

How is Italian Easter Bread different from other sweet breads?

Unlike many sweet breads, Italian Easter Bread is unique as a braided bread with eggs baked right inside. It combines a tender, slightly sweet dough with symbolic decorations, making it both a tasty treat and a meaningful holiday tradition.

Is there a keto version of Italian Easter Bread?

Yes! Many home cooks adapt the classic recipe using low-carb flours like almond or coconut flour and skip baking raw eggs inside. Instead, decorated hard-boiled eggs are placed around the loaf after baking, keeping the festive spirit alive while fitting a keto lifestyle.

Irresistible Italian Easter Bread Recipe – Soft, Sweet, and Braided

Name: Italian Easter Bread: A Traditional Braided Delight with a Colorful Twist
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 2 h
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon active dry yeast; 1 cup warm whole milk (110°F); 3 large eggs; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 teaspoon anise extract or zest of 1 lemon; 1 teaspoon salt; 8–12 raw eggs, dyed; 1 egg for egg wash; Rainbow sprinkles (optional)

Description

A soft, sweet Italian Easter Bread braided with colorful eggs, sprinkles, and light citrus flavor—perfect for spring brunch tables.

Ingredients

Scale

4 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1 tablespoon active dry yeast

1 cup warm whole milk (110°F)

3 large eggs

1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened

1 teaspoon anise extract or zest of 1 lemon

1 teaspoon salt

8–12 raw eggs, dyed

1 egg for egg wash

Rainbow sprinkles (optional)

Instructions

1. Bloom yeast in warm milk with sugar; let it foam for 5–10 minutes.

2. In a large bowl, mix flour, salt, zest or anise, eggs, butter, and yeast mixture.

3. Knead until smooth and elastic, about 7–10 minutes.

4. Let dough rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours until doubled.

5. Divide dough into three ropes, braid, and tuck dyed eggs inside the braids.

6. Form into a ring or oval and place on parchment-lined baking sheet.

7. Let rise again for 30–45 minutes.

8. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

9. Brush with egg wash and top with sprinkles if using.

10. Bake for 30–35 minutes until golden brown.

11. Cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.

Notes

Use unbleached flour for a rustic texture.

Substitute with almond and coconut flour for a keto-friendly version.

For natural egg dye, try beet juice or turmeric.

Hard-boiled eggs can be added after baking if preferred.

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Bread
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 210
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 190mg
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 31g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 6g
Cholesterol: 65mg

Keywords: Italian Easter Bread, sweet Easter bread, braided bread with eggs