Italian Easter Bread

Name: Italian Easter Bread
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 cup warm water or use half milk and half water; 4 teaspoons instant yeast; 2 large eggs; 3/4 cup granulated sugar (plus 2 tablespoons); 1 small lemon or orange (zest only ); 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1/3 cup neutral oil such as vegetable or canola oil; 4.5 cups all-purpose flour (plus 1/2 cup more if needed to get a soft dough (add gradually)); 1 large egg; 1 tablespoon water; 2 large dyed eggs (hard-boiled); Powdered sugar icing (2 cups powdered sugar mixed with 2–3 tablespoons milk or water); Colored nonpareils or sprinkles

Instructions

Prep:30minCook:45min

A soft, light, and tender Italian Easter bread inspired by traditional Italian-American recipes. This recipe makes two large, beautifully braided loaves that are perfect for Easter.

Updated at: Fri, 19 Jun 2026 08:29:24 GMT