Golden Egg Loaves or Braids Recipe: Traditional Easter Bread

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Golden Egg Loaves or Braids RecipeGolden Egg Loaves or Braids are a cherished Easter tradition in many cultures around the world. This sweet, rich bread, often adorned with colorful eggs, is not only delicious but also carries deep symbolic meaning. Whether you’re familiar with traditional Easter bread or new to this delightful recipe, you’re in for a treat. This article will guide you through the process of making Golden Egg Loaves or Braids, a beautiful and flavorful addition to your Easter celebrations.

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

  1. 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.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, remaining sugar, and salt.
  3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, beat the eggs and mix in the melted butter, vanilla extract, and anise extract if using.
  4. 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.
  5. 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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.

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