Easter Bread Colored Eggs (Printable version)

Sweet braided loaf featuring vibrantly colored eggs, ideal for festive spring celebrations.

# List of ingredients:

→ Dough

01 - 4 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 1/2 cup granulated sugar
03 - 1 packet active dry yeast (7 g)
04 - 3/4 cup whole milk, lukewarm
05 - 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
06 - 2 large eggs, room temperature
07 - 1 tsp fine sea salt
08 - 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
09 - Zest of 1 lemon

→ Decoration

10 - 5-6 raw eggs, colored with food-safe dye
11 - 1 egg yolk mixed with 1 tbsp milk for egg wash
12 - 1-2 tbsp colored sprinkles

# Directions:

01 - Dissolve yeast and 1 tablespoon sugar in lukewarm milk. Let stand 5-10 minutes until foamy.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, remaining sugar, salt, and lemon zest.
03 - Add yeast mixture, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla. Mix until a soft dough forms.
04 - Knead on lightly floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Add flour 1 tablespoon at a time if sticky.
05 - Place dough in greased bowl, cover, and let rise in warm place until doubled, approximately 1 to 1.5 hours.
06 - Punch down dough and divide into three equal portions. Roll each into a 16-inch rope.
07 - Braid ropes together and form into a ring or leave as straight braid. Transfer to parchment-lined baking sheet.
08 - Gently tuck raw colored eggs into the braid, spacing evenly. Do not press deeply.
09 - Cover loosely and let rise for 30-45 minutes until puffy.
10 - Preheat oven to 350°F.
11 - Brush bread with egg wash, avoiding colored eggs. Sprinkle with colored sprinkles if desired.
12 - Bake for 25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Tent with foil if browning too quickly.
13 - Transfer to wire rack and cool completely before serving.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The braided center cradles colorful eggs like little jewels tucked into a golden nest
  • Each tender pull apart piece tastes like a celebration and brings everyone to the table
02 -
  • Raw eggs bake inside the bread so do not use hard boiled ones or you will end up with rubbery disappointment
  • The dough needs proper rising time or you will end up with a dense heavy brick instead of cloudlike bread
03 -
  • Room temperature ingredients prevent the butter from seizing and help the dough rise properly
  • Use kitchen shears to snip off any stray dough after baking for a cleaner appearance

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