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Italian Easter Bread (Pane di Pasqua)

Soft, lightly sweet, and beautifully braided, this classic Italian Easter Bread is flavored with citrus and topped with colorful eggs—an easy, traditional recipe perfect for your holiday table.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 4 hours
Course Dessert
Cuisine Italian

Ingredients
  

  • 4 cups flour
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 package active dry yeast 2-3 tsp.
  • 1 cup milk warmed
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup butter melted
  • 1 Tbsp orange zest
  • 4 -6 medium eggs raw and dyed
  • 1 medium egg for egg wash
  • 1 Tbsp. sprinkles Optional

Instructions
 

  • Activate the Yeast

    In a small bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let it sit until foamy—about 5–10 minutes.

  • Make the Dough

    In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, and salt. Add eggs, melted butter, vanilla, orange zest, and the yeast mixture. Stir until a soft dough forms.

  • Knead

    Turn onto a floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.

  • First Rise

    Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise until doubled in size (about 1–1.5 hours).

  • Shape the Bread

    Divide the dough into ropes and braid. Form into a round wreath or loaf. Gently nestle the dyed eggs into the dough.

  • Second Rise

    Cover and let rise again for 30–45 minutes.

  • Bake

    Brush with egg wash, add sprinkles, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes until golden brown.
Keyword Easter, bread, Italian