Indulge in the sweetness of tradition: bake a heavenly italian easter bread with our easy recipe

The arrival of Easter brings with it not only the joy of celebration but also the aroma of freshly baked Italian Easter bread. This traditional sweet bread, known as “Pane di Pasqua,” holds a special place in Italian culture and is a beloved treat enjoyed by families and friends alike. With our authentic Italian Easter bread recipe, you can recreate this culinary masterpiece in the comfort of your own home.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound (450g) all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
• 1 cup (240ml) warm milk
• 1/2 cup (120ml) granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (120g) candied orange peel, chopped
• 1/2 cup (120g) candied lemon peel, chopped
• 1/2 cup (120g) raisins
• 1 large egg yolk, beaten

Instructions:

1. Proof the Yeast: In a small bowl, whisk together the warm milk, 1 tablespoon of the granulated sugar, and the yeast. Let stand in a warm place for 5-10 minutes, or until the yeast is foamy.
2. Make the Dough: In a large bowl, combine the flour, remaining sugar, vanilla extract, eggs, butter, salt, candied orange peel, candied lemon peel, and raisins. Add the proofed yeast mixture and stir until a dough forms.
3. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Punch Down and Shape: Punch down the dough to release the air. Divide it into two equal parts and shape into loaves. Place the loaves in a greased 9×13-inch baking pan.
6. Second Rise: Cover the loaves with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for another 30 minutes, or until almost doubled in size.
7. Glaze and Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush the loaves with the beaten egg yolk. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
8. Cool and Serve: Remove the bread from the oven and let cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.

The Symbolism of Italian Easter Bread

The shape and ingredients of Italian Easter bread hold symbolic significance:

• Oval Shape: Represents the crown of thorns worn by Jesus Christ.
• Eggs: Symbolize rebirth and new life.
• Candied Fruit: Represents the sweetness of the Resurrection.
• Raisins: Represent prosperity and abundance.

Tips for Success:

• Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
• Proof the yeast properly to ensure the bread rises correctly.
• Knead the dough thoroughly to develop gluten and create a strong structure.
• Allow the bread to rise in a warm, draft-free place for optimal growth.
• Glaze the bread with egg yolk before baking for a golden crust.
• Let the bread cool completely before slicing to prevent tearing.

Variations:

• Sweeten the Bread: Add more granulated sugar to the dough for a sweeter flavor.
• Add Spices: Incorporate spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom to enhance the aroma.
• Use Different Fruits: Substitute candied cherries, pineapple, or apricots for a unique twist.
• Decorate with Sprinkles: Top the bread with colorful sprinkles before baking for a festive touch.

The Joy of Sharing

Italian Easter bread is not just a culinary delight but also a symbol of community and love. Share this delicious bread with your family and friends, spreading joy and the spirit of Easter.

Top Questions Asked

Q: Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?
A: Yes, you can substitute active dry yeast for instant yeast. However, you will need to activate it by dissolving it in warm water and sugar before adding it to the dough.
Q: How do I store Italian Easter bread?
A: Store the bread at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days. It can also be frozen for up to 2 months.
Q: Can I make the bread ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the dough up to 2 days in advance and refrigerate it until ready to bake.