Ingredients
To make Golden Egg Loaves or Braids, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Dough
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup warm milk (110°F)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon anise extract (optional)
Decorations
- 4-6 dyed hard-boiled eggs (optional)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Sprinkles or coarse sugar (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm milk, a tablespoon of sugar, and the yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, remaining sugar, and salt.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, beat the eggs and mix in the melted butter, vanilla extract, and anise extract if using.
- Form the Dough: Add the yeast mixture and the egg mixture to the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a bit more flour.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.
Step 2: Shape the Loaves or Braids
- Divide the Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into three equal portions if making braids, or two portions if making loaves.
- Shape the Dough:
- For Braids: Roll each portion into long ropes and braid them together. Tuck the ends under and place the braid on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- For Loaves: Shape each portion into a loaf and place them in greased loaf pans.
- Decorate: If using dyed eggs, gently press them into the dough. They can be arranged along the braid or nestled on top of the loaves.
- Second Rise: Cover the shaped dough with a damp cloth and let it rise again for about 30-45 minutes or until puffed up.
Step 3: Bake the Bread
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Egg Wash: Brush the beaten egg over the top of the dough to give it a golden, glossy finish. Sprinkle with sprinkles or coarse sugar if desired.
- Bake: Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. If the top is browning too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil.
- Cool: Allow the bread to cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.
Tips and Variations
- Flavors: Add a teaspoon of anise seeds or swap anise extract with almond extract for a different flavor profile.
- Toppings: Instead of sprinkles, you can use sesame seeds or poppy seeds for a more traditional look.
- Shapes: Experiment with different shapes like round loaves or wreaths.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This bread also freezes well for up to a month.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (1 slice, approximately 1/12 of the loaf):
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fat: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 10g
Conclusion
Golden Egg Loaves or Braids are a beautiful and tasty addition to any Easter celebration. The rich, slightly sweet dough pairs perfectly with the festive, colorful eggs. Whether you’re making this for the first time or it’s a beloved family tradition, we hope this recipe brings joy and deliciousness to your holiday table.
We’d love to hear about your experience making Golden Egg Loaves or Braids! Please leave a comment below, share your photos on social media with the hashtag #EasyCrispyRecipes, and subscribe to our newsletter for more delightful recipes. Happy baking.