Homemade Easter Bread (Yeast Bread)

Here’s a classic Homemade Easter Bread recipe made with yeast — soft, lightly sweet, and perfect for Easter. This is the traditional braided-style bread, but you can shape it any way you like.

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Homemade Easter Bread (Yeast Bread)

Ingredients

For the Dough

• 4 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
• ¾ cup warm milk (about 110°F / warm, not hot)
• 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
• 3 large eggs (room temperature)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest or orange zest (optional but traditional)

For Topping

• 1 egg, beaten (egg wash)
• 2 tablespoons milk
• Colored sprinkles or pearl sugar (optional)

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Directions

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

1. In a small bowl, mix warm milk and 1 tablespoon of sugar.
2. Sprinkle the yeast over the milk.
3. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
   If it doesn’t foam, the yeast may be inactive.

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Step 2: Prepare the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:
   • Remaining sugar
   • Melted butter
   • Eggs
   • Vanilla extract
   • Zest (if using)
2. Add the activated yeast mixture and mix well.
3. Gradually add flour and salt.
4. Mix until a soft dough forms.

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Step 3: Knead

1. Transfer dough to a lightly floured surface.
2. Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
3. If dough is sticky, add a little flour (1 tablespoon at a time).

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Step 4: First Rise

1. Place dough in a lightly greased bowl.
2. Cover with a clean kitchen towel.
3. Let rise in a warm place for 1½–2 hours, or until doubled in size.

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Step 5: Shape the Bread

1. Punch down the dough.
2. Divide into 3 equal pieces.
3. Roll each piece into a long rope.
4. Braid the ropes together and pinch the ends to seal.
5. Place on a parchment-lined baking tray.

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Step 6: Second Rise

1. Cover loosely and let rise again for 30–40 minutes until puffy.

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Step 7: Bake

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Mix beaten egg with milk and brush over the bread.
3. Sprinkle with sugar or sprinkles if desired.
4. Bake for 25–30 minutes, until golden brown.

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Step 8: Cool & Serve

• Let the bread cool slightly before slicing.
• Serve plain or with butter, honey, or jam.

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Tips

• You can place dyed raw eggs between the braids before baking (traditional Easter style).
• For extra softness, replace ¼ cup milk with heavy cream.
• Store covered at room temperature for up to 2 days.