Easter Bread: An Old-Fashioned Tradition
Easter bread is one of those classic recipes that has been enjoyed for generations. Its rich yeasty flavor and dense, golden crumb make it a beloved treat each Easter season.
It may be surprising, but the recipe itself hasn’t changed much since its origin centuries ago. A simple combination of flour, yeast, sugar, eggs, and butter form the base of this traditional Easter bread. The addition of golden raisins and spices like anise and orange zest give this bread its unique and distinct flavor.
Baking the Perfect Easter Bread
Baking this bread is a bit different than baking a regular loaf of bread. It requires mixing, kneading, and rolling, which can feel like a bit of a puzzle at first. However, once conquered, the bread-making process can become second nature. With some patience and finesse, you’ll soon be able to make this delicious Easter bread with ease!
The key to a perfect loaf is kneading the dough until it’s soft and springy. Once the dough is prepared and shaped into two loaves, it will need to rise until doubled in size. Then, just brush with a beaten egg and sprinkle with sugar before baking in the oven.
Delight Your Guests with Easter Bread
Easter bread is a surefire crowd-pleaser and a wonderful way to show your four-legged friends how much you care. Serve it with soft butter, fill it with jams, or serve it to your family as a special Easter treat.
If you’re looking for a unique twist on classic Easter bread, try adding a bit of citrus zest or a handful of toasted pine nuts for a tasty variation. And don’t forget a few festive decorations—a few sprigs of spring flowers, a coloured ribbon and a decorative Easter egg can really transform an ordinary loaf into something special.
Recipe for Easter Bread
Ingredients:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 3 tablespoons melted butter
- 3 eggs, lightly beaten
- ½ cup warm milk
- 1 teaspoon anise seeds
- 1 teaspoon grated orange zest
- ¼ cup golden raisins
- 1 egg, beaten, for brushing
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar, for sprinkling
Instructions:
- In a medium-sized bowl, combine the flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. Stir to combine.
- Add the melted butter, eggs, and milk and stir until dough forms into a ball. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 10 minutes, until dough is soft and springy.
- In a small bowl, stir together the anise seeds and orange zest. Add to the dough and knead for 5 minutes more.
- Roll the dough into 2 long rectangular pieces. Place the raisins evenly over the surface, pressing them into the dough lightly. Tightly roll the rectangles of dough into two logs.
- Transfer the logs onto a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet. Place the logs at least 2 inches apart and cover with a damp cloth. Allow to rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
- Preheat oven to 375°F. Brush the risen loaves with the beaten egg and sprinkle with sugar. Bake for 25 minutes, or until golden brown and bread makes a hollow sound when tapped on the bottom.
- Cool slightly and enjoy with butter or jam.
Easter bread is a delicious and classic recipe that anyone can make in their own kitchen. With the right ingredients, patience, and some practice, you’ll be able to master this timeless treat and share it with your loved ones. Why not try baking this Easter bread and enjoying a taste of tradition today!
