Discover the authentic Italian Easter Bread (Pane di Pasqua) recipe passed down through generations! Chef Marco shares his family’s traditional recipe with easy-to-follow American measurements. This sweet, braided bread with colorful eggs is the centerpiece of every Italian Easter celebration.
In this heartwarming tutorial, Chef Marco reveals the secrets to creating the perfect Easter bread with its signature braided wreath shape, vibrant dyed eggs, and festive sprinkles. Learn about the rich symbolism behind this centuries-old tradition – from the wreath representing Christ’s crown of thorns to the eggs symbolizing new life and resurrection.
Whether you’re Italian or simply love exploring cultural traditions, this recipe brings the warmth and joy of an authentic Italian Easter to your home. The bread is soft, sweet, and perfect for sharing with family. As Chef Marco says, “This is not just food—this is art, this is love, this is tradition.”
INGREDIENTS:
4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon fresh lemon zest
2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (one packet)
1/2 cup whole milk, lukewarm (105°F)
2 large eggs, room temperature
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Colored eggs and sprinkles for decoration
Bake at 350°F for 25-30 minutes until golden brown. Perfect for Easter morning breakfast or as a stunning centerpiece for your holiday table!
Subscribe for more authentic Italian recipes and traditions from Chef Marco’s kitchen to yours!
#ItalianEasterBread #PaneDiPasqua #EasterRecipes
1 Comment
Authentic Italian Easter Bread (Pane di Pasqua)
Ingredients
For the Dough:
4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon fresh lemon zest
2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (one packet)
1/2 cup whole milk, lukewarm (105°F)
2 large eggs, at room temperature
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
For Decoration:
1 egg mixed with 1 tablespoon water (for egg wash)
4-6 raw eggs, dyed in bright colors (they will cook in the oven)
Colorful sprinkles (nonpareils)
Instructions
Prepare the Yeast Mixture:
In a small bowl, combine the lukewarm milk (105°F), a pinch of sugar, and the yeast.
Stir gently and let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, salt, and lemon zest.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients.
Add the yeast mixture and eggs to the well.
Begin mixing with a wooden spoon until roughly combined.
Knead the Dough:
Add the melted butter and vanilla extract.
Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
The dough should be soft but not sticky. Add a little more flour if needed.
First Rise:
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning once to coat.
Cover with a clean kitchen towel and let rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, until doubled in size.
Shape the Bread:
Punch down the dough to release air bubbles.
Divide the dough into 3 equal parts.
Roll each piece into a rope about 16 inches long.
Braid the three ropes together, then form into a circle.
Pinch the ends together to seal.
Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Add Eggs and Second Rise:
Gently press the colored raw eggs into the braided dough at even intervals.
Cover loosely with a kitchen towel and let rise again for 45 minutes to 1 hour.
Prepare for Baking:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Brush the bread with egg wash, being careful not to brush the colored eggs.
Sprinkle generously with colored sprinkles.
Bake:
Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
If the bread starts to brown too quickly, cover loosely with foil.
The bread is done when it sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Cool:
Transfer to a wire rack and cool completely before serving.
Storage
The bread will stay fresh for about 3 days in an airtight container at room temperature.
If you want to freeze it, remove the eggs first and wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil.
Serving Suggestions
Traditionally served for Easter breakfast with coffee or hot chocolate
Can also be enjoyed as a sweet treat after Easter dinner
Pairs well with a glass of sweet wine for adults
Buona Pasqua! (Happy Easter!)