This Easter bread is soft, fluffy, and bursting with flavor, making it a perfect centerpiece for your holiday table. With a simple yet incredible trick—using warm milk and water to activate the yeast—this recipe ensures your bread rises beautifully and has an irresistible texture. It’s easy to make and far superior to anything store-bought!

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 2 large eggs
• 60 grams sugar (about ¼ cup)
• 200 ml warm milk (about ¾ cup + 1 tablespoon, warmed to about 110°F/43°C)
• 200 ml warm water (about ¾ cup + 1 tablespoon, warmed to about 110°F/43°C)
• 8 grams dry yeast (about 2¼ teaspoons or 1 packet)
• 600–650 grams all-purpose flour (about 4½–5 cups, divided)
• 1 teaspoon salt

Optional for Decoration:

• Colored sprinkles, dyed eggs, or a glaze made from powdered sugar and milk

Instructions

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

1. In a small bowl, combine the warm milk , warm water , and sugar . Stir gently to dissolve the sugar.
2. Sprinkle the dry yeast over the liquid mixture and let it sit for 5–10 minutes , until frothy. This step ensures the yeast is active and ready to help the dough rise.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and the activated yeast mixture.
2. Gradually add 500 grams (about 4 cups) of the flour to the wet ingredients, stirring with a wooden spoon or spatula until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Add the salt and continue mixing. Gradually incorporate the remaining 100–150 grams (about ¾–1 cup) of flour, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough becomes soft, smooth, and slightly tacky but not sticky. You may not need all the flour, so add it gradually.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

1. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes , until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook on medium speed for 5–7 minutes.
2. Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free area for 1–1.5 hours , or until doubled in size.

Step 4: Shape the Bread

1. Punch down the risen dough to release any air bubbles. Divide it into 2 or 3 equal portions , depending on whether you want one large loaf or smaller ones.
2. Roll each portion into long ropes, about 12–14 inches in length. Braid the ropes together, pinching the ends to seal. For smaller loaves, braid two ropes per loaf.
3. Place the shaped dough on a parchment-lined baking sheet. If desired, tuck dyed eggs into the braids for decoration (ensure the eggs are hard-boiled and cooled before adding).
4. Cover the shaped dough loosely with a towel and let it rise again for 30–45 minutes , or until puffy.

Step 5: Bake the Bread

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) .
2. Optional: Brush the risen dough with a beaten egg wash (1 egg mixed with 1 tablespoon water) for a shiny, golden crust.
3. Bake the bread for 25–35 minutes , or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 190°F (88°C) . Rotate the pan halfway through baking for even browning.

Step 6: Decorate and Serve

1. Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool slightly on a wire rack.
2. Optional: Drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk over the cooled bread, or sprinkle with colored sprinkles for a festive touch.
3. Slice and serve warm or at room temperature. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Tips for Success

• Warm Liquids: Ensure the milk and water are warm but not too hot (around 110°F/43°C). Hot liquids can kill the yeast, preventing the dough from rising.
• Flour Amount: The exact amount of flour may vary depending on humidity and other factors. Add it gradually to avoid making the dough too dry.
• Dyed Eggs: To decorate with dyed eggs, ensure they are hard-boiled and cooled completely before placing them into the dough. Avoid eating the eggs if they’ve been baked.
• Storage: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil to keep the bread soft. It can also be frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Easter bread is a show-stopping treat that’s as delicious as it is beautiful. Its soft, pillowy texture and subtle sweetness make it a crowd-pleaser, while the braided design and festive decorations add a touch of tradition and charm. Whether enjoyed as part of a holiday spread or shared with loved ones, this bread is sure to bring joy to your table.

Celebrate with this delightful homemade bread—it’s a taste of tradition and festivity in