Name: Easy Braided Easter Bread
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 2 h 30 min
Ingredients: 4 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast; 1/2 cup warm milk (110°F); 3 large eggs (room temperature); 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened); 1 tsp salt; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 tsp ground cardamom (optional); 1 egg yolk + 1 tbsp water (for egg wash); Colored sprinkles or dyed eggs for decoration

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Easy Braided Easter Bread: A Golden, Sweet Tradition for Your Holiday Table 🐣🥖✨

1. Introduction

Celebrate Easter with this stunning Easy Braided Easter Bread recipe that brings warmth and tradition to your holiday table. This sweet, golden loaf is easier to make than you might think, with a soft, pillowy texture and delicate sweetness that makes it perfect for breakfast or as a festive centerpiece. Whether you’re continuing a family tradition or starting a new one, this easy braided Easter bread recipe will become a cherished part of your celebrations. If you love baking special treats for holidays, be sure to check out our baking category for more delicious ideas.

Finished Easy Braided Easter Bread with glaze and sprinkles, ready for Easter celebration.

2. Ingredients

For this easy braided Easter bread recipe, you’ll need simple ingredients that create magical results:

4 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
1/2 cup granulated sugar (for that perfect sweetness)
1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast (the magic ingredient for rise)
1/2 cup warm milk (110°F – crucial temperature for yeast activation)
3 large eggs (room temperature – helps with even mixing)
1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened – creates tender texture)
1 tsp salt (balances the sweetness)
1 tsp vanilla extract (for wonderful aroma)
1/2 tsp ground cardamom (optional but highly recommended)
1 egg yolk + 1 tbsp water (for that beautiful golden shine)
Colored sprinkles or dyed eggs for decoration (make it festive!)

3. Equipment Needed

To make this easy braided Easter bread, you’ll need some basic kitchen tools that you probably already have:

Stand mixer with dough hook (or strong arms for kneading – it’s great exercise!)
Large mixing bowl (for all that beautiful dough)
Plastic wrap or clean kitchen towel (to keep dough cozy while rising)
Baking sheet (a heavy-duty one works best)
Parchment paper (for easy cleanup)
Pastry brush (for that perfect egg wash application)

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In your stand mixer bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy – this is called “proofing” and ensures your yeast is active. Add eggs, softened butter, vanilla, and cardamom if using. Gradually add flour and salt while mixing on low speed. Once combined, knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic – the dough should pull away from the sides of the bowl. If you’re looking for more sweet treats, try our Mississippi Mud Cake for another crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients for Easy Braided Easter Bread arranged on a counter for dough preparation.

Step 2: First Rise

Transfer dough to a lightly greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap or a clean towel, and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours until doubled in size. The dough should spring back slowly when poked – this is called the “poke test” and indicates perfect rising. For the best rising environment, try placing the bowl in your oven with just the light on (not heated). If you’re planning an Easter brunch, pair this bread with our Cranberry Brie Mozzarella Grilled Sandwich for a complete meal.

Stand mixer kneading dough for Easy Braided Easter Bread.

Step 3: Shape the Bread

Punch down the risen dough (this releases air bubbles) and divide into 3 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a 20-inch rope – if the dough resists, let it rest for 5 minutes to relax the gluten. Braid the ropes together, pinching the ends to seal and tucking them under for a neat appearance. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. For more family-friendly recipes, try our Family Favorite Honey Roasted Carrots as a side dish.

Risen dough for Easy Braided Easter Bread being prepared for braiding.

Step 4: Second Rise and Bake

Cover the braid loosely with plastic wrap or a towel and let rise for 30-45 minutes until puffy – this is called “proofing” and gives the bread its final lift. Meanwhile, preheat oven to 350°F. Brush with egg wash (this gives that beautiful golden color) and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped. Cool slightly before decorating with glaze and sprinkles or adding dyed eggs. For more breakfast inspiration, browse our breakfast and brunch recipes.

Braiding dough strands for Easy Braided Easter Bread on a baking sheet.

5. Tips for Perfect Easy Braided Easter Bread

Ensure your milk is warm but not hot (about 110°F) to activate the yeast properly without killing it
For extra shine, brush with melted butter after baking – this also adds flavor
Add 1/4 cup raisins or currants to the dough for traditional variation (soak them first to prevent drying)
If the dough is sticky, add flour 1 tablespoon at a time – too much flour makes dense bread
For a round loaf (symbolizing eternity), form the braid into a circle before the second rise
Check out this alternative version from AllRecipes for comparison

6. Variations

This easy braided Easter bread recipe is wonderfully versatile – try these delicious twists:

Lemon zest variation: Add 2 tbsp lemon zest to the dough for bright, citrusy notes
Almond version: Replace vanilla with almond extract and top with sliced almonds
Cinnamon swirl: Roll out dough, spread with cinnamon sugar, then roll up before braiding
Cheese filling: Add a layer of sweetened ricotta before braiding for extra richness
Chocolate chip: Fold in 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips for a sweet surprise

7. Serving Suggestions

Your easy braided Easter bread is delicious served in many ways:

Warm with butter and honey – the classic way to enjoy fresh bread
Toasted with jam for breakfast – try apricot or raspberry
As part of an Easter brunch spread – pair with our dinner recipes for a complete meal
With coffee or tea as an afternoon treat – perfect with Earl Grey
As edible centerpiece for your holiday table – decorate with fresh flowers
For dessert lovers, serve with our dessert recipes

8. Storage Instructions

To keep your easy braided Easter bread fresh and delicious:

Store at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days – plastic wrap helps retain moisture
Freeze whole or sliced for up to 1 month (wrap tightly in plastic then foil) – great for meal prep
Refresh in a 300°F oven for 5 minutes if it becomes stale – spritz with water first
Wait until completely cool before storing to prevent sogginess – patience is key!
For more storage tips, check our salad recipes that pair well with bread

9. Conclusion

This easy braided Easter bread recipe delivers impressive results with simple techniques, making it perfect for bakers of all levels. The sweet, tender crumb and beautiful presentation will make it a highlight of your Easter celebration. Whether you follow the traditional version or experiment with variations, this bread is sure to become a cherished part of your holiday traditions. Don’t forget to explore our soup recipes and chicken recipes to complete your Easter menu. Happy baking, and may your Easter be as sweet and joyful as this beautiful loaf! 🐰🌷🥖