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Pane di Pasqua

This delightful Traditional Italian Easter Bread, or 'Pane di Pasqua,' serves as a symbol of joy and celebration during Easter, combining a rich, sweet bread with colorful eggs for a festive touch.
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Prep Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Breakfast, Dessert
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup milk Warm until lukewarm
  • 1/2 cup sugar Adjust for a sweeter bread if desired
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter Cream until light and fluffy
  • 3 large eggs One egg used for egg wash
  • 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Food coloring Optional for coloring eggs
  • Sesame seeds Optional for topping

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Warm the milk until lukewarm, then add the yeast and let it sit until it bubbles.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
  3. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
  4. Stir in the warm milk and yeast mixture along with the vanilla extract.
  5. Gradually add in the flour and salt, mixing until a dough forms.
  6. Knead the dough on a floured surface until smooth and elastic, about 5-10 minutes.
  7. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a cloth, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1-2 hours.
Baking
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Punch down the risen dough and divide it into three equal parts. Roll each part into a long rope and braid them together.
  3. Place the braided dough on a greased baking sheet. If desired, create small indentations and color Easter eggs to place in the dough.
  4. Let the bread rise for another 30 minutes.
  5. Brush with egg wash (1 beaten egg) and sprinkle with sesame seeds if using.
  6. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
  7. Let cool before serving.

Notes

Store in an airtight container at room temperature or wrap in plastic wrap. For longer storage, consider freezing the bread, sliced for easier access later. Make sure milk is warm but not boiling to keep yeast alive. Kneading is important for the best texture. Customize with boiled colored eggs for a festive touch. Dried fruit can also be added for variation.