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Traditional Italian Easter Bread Recipe with Anise

Delightful Traditional Italian Easter Bread Recipe with Anise

This Traditional Italian Easter Bread Recipe with Anise brings family together, celebrating warmth and holiday joy with its enchanting flavor.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Rising Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 5 minutes
Servings: 12 slices
Course: Breakfast
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 220
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Dough
  • 3 cups All-Purpose Flour Substitute with gluten-free flour for a lighter texture.
  • 2 teaspoons Rapid Rise Yeast Active dry yeast can be used with adjusted proofing time.
  • ½ teaspoon Salt Enhances all the flavors beautifully.
  • ¼ cup Granulated Sugar Can replace with honey for a natural touch.
  • ¾ cup Milk Almond milk is a great dairy-free alternative.
  • 1 teaspoon Anise Extract Vanilla extract can be used if desired.
  • 2 large Eggs Use flax eggs for a vegan version.
  • 2 tablespoons Softened Butter Coconut oil serves as a dairy-free substitute.
For the Icing
  • 1 cup Powdered Sugar Forms the foundation of the sweet topping.
  • 2 tablespoons Milk Adjusts the consistency for a smooth icing.
  • ½ teaspoon Anise Extract For added flavor in icing.
  • Nonpareils For decorative touch on icing.

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl
  • Saucepan
  • Baking Sheet
  • Wire Rack

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of flour, 2 teaspoons of yeast, ½ teaspoon of salt, and ¼ cup of sugar. Make a well in the center.
  2. Gently warm ¾ cup of milk and 1 teaspoon of anise extract over low heat until it reaches 110°F. Pour into flour mixture and stir until well combined.
  3. Add 2 tablespoons of softened butter and 2 eggs. Mix until fully incorporated. Gradually stir in 2 to 2 ½ cups of flour until the dough pulls together.
  4. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 7-8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  5. Place the kneaded dough in a lightly oiled bowl and cover it. Allow it to rise for about 10 minutes.
  6. Punch down the dough and divide it into two equal pieces. Roll each into long ropes, twist together to form a braid, and place on a baking sheet.
  7. Cover the braided bread and let it rise in a warm area for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
  8. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Brush the dough with egg wash and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
  9. While the bread bakes, whisk together 1 cup of powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of milk, and ½ teaspoon of anise extract until smooth.
  10. After cooling for 15 minutes, drizzle the icing over the bread and sprinkle with nonpareils before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 220kcalCarbohydrates: 34gProtein: 4gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 1.5gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 100mgFiber: 1gSugar: 12gVitamin A: 250IUCalcium: 50mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze wrapped in plastic and aluminum foil for up to 3 months.

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