Delicious Sweet Braided Easter Bread Recipe

This Sweet Braided Easter Bread is a traditional holiday treat that is soft, sweet, and perfect for sharing with friends and family. With a hint of citrus and a touch of sweetness, this bread will be the star of your Easter table.

Ingredients

• 1 cup warm milk
• 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup butter, melted
• 4 eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 5 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 egg yolk, beaten
• 1 tbsp water
• 2 tbsp sugar

Directions

1. In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sugar, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and lemon zest. Mix well.
3. Add the yeast mixture to the mixing bowl and stir to combine.
4. Gradually add the flour and salt to the mixture, stirring until a dough forms.
5. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
6. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and let it rise for 1 hour.
7. Punch down the dough and divide it into 3 equal parts. Roll each part into a long rope.
8. Braid the 3 ropes together and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
9. Cover the bread with a kitchen towel and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
10. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
11. Mix the egg yolk and water together to make an egg wash. Brush the top of the bread with the egg wash and sprinkle sugar on top.
12. Bake the bread for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
13. Let the bread cool before slicing and serving.
14. Enjoy your homemade Sweet Braided Easter Bread!

Interesting Facts