20 Best Italian Sweet Easter Bread Recipe Try These Culinary Delights!
Published on: Mar 16, 2024
Looking for a delicious and traditional Easter treat to add to your holiday menu? Look no further than this authentic Italian sweet Easter bread recipe! This bread, also known as "Pane di Pasqua," is a staple in many Italian households during the Easter season. With its rich flavor and festive appearance, it's sure to be a hit with your family and friends. In this article, we'll share our tried and true recipe for the best Italian sweet Easter bread. So put on your apron and get ready to impress your loved ones with this delightful dish!
Main Ingredients: Water, Sugar, Dry Yeast, Unbleached All Purpose Flour
Easter is a time for celebration and indulgence, and one delicious way to do so is by making Italian Easter bread. This traditional bread, also known as Pane di Pasqua, is a staple in many Italian households during the Easter season. It's a sweet and rich bread that is often decorated with colorful eggs and makes for a beautiful centerpiece on any Easter table. In this article, we will be sharing 20 different recipes for Italian Easter bread, each with its own unique twist. So, let's dive in and discover some mouth-watering Easter bread recipes!
If you're new to making Italian Easter bread, this easy and fool-proof recipe is a great place to start. It uses simple ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen, and the result is a soft and fluffy bread with a subtle sweetness. You can customize this bread by adding your choice of nuts, raisins, or dried fruits. Serve it warm with some butter or jam for a delicious treat!
3of 40
Italian Easter Bread (Casatiello)
Main Ingredients: Active Dry Yeast, Warm Water, Honey, All Purpose Flour
Casatiello is a savory version of Italian Easter bread that originated in Naples. It's traditionally made with cured meats, such as salami, prosciutto, and ham, and is often served as an appetizer or snack during Easter festivities. The bread is deliciously moist and flavorful, thanks to the addition of these cured meats and some grated Parmesan cheese. This recipe is perfect for those who prefer a more savory option for their Easter bread.
4of 40
Chocolate Marbled Italian Easter Bread
Main Ingredients: Whole Milk, Brown Sugar, Active Dry Yeast, Unsalted
Who says Easter bread can't be indulgent? This chocolate marbled Italian Easter bread is a perfect treat for chocolate lovers. The bread is made with a rich dough that is swirled with chocolate, giving it a beautiful marbled effect. The addition of chocolate chips and a chocolate glaze make this bread a decadent dessert option for your Easter celebrations.
5of 40
Traditional Sweet Italian Easter Bread
Main Ingredients: Whole Milk, Granulated Sugar, Active Dry Yeast, All
This recipe stays true to the traditional Italian Easter bread with a sweet and buttery dough that is studded with colorful eggs. The eggs are not only a beautiful decoration but also symbolize new life, making this bread a perfect addition to your Easter table. This bread is also known as Colomba di Pasqua, which translates to "Easter dove," due to its dove-like shape.
6of 40
Pane Di Pasqua - Italian Easter Bread
Main Ingredients: Eggs, Whole Milk, Active Dry Yeast, Large Eggs
This Pane di Pasqua recipe is a family favorite that has been passed down for generations. It's a soft and sweet bread that is flavored with anise and orange zest, giving it a delicious aroma and flavor. The dough is also enriched with eggs and butter, making it extra rich and indulgent. This bread is perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack during the Easter holiday.
This recipe is another variation of the traditional Italian Easter bread, but with a twist. It uses a combination of all-purpose and bread flour, giving the bread a denser and chewier texture. The addition of honey adds a subtle sweetness, and the eggs are dyed with natural dyes, such as turmeric or beetroot juice, for a more natural and colorful effect.
8of 40
Italian Easter Bread- Pane di pasqua
Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Granulated Sugar, Yeast, Salt, Milk
This recipe puts a different spin on the traditional Easter bread by incorporating a delicious cream cheese filling. The bread is braided, and the cream cheese filling is swirled throughout, making for a beautiful and delicious presentation. This bread is best served warm, with a cup of coffee or tea, for a delightful Easter morning treat.
9of 40
Italian Easter Bread- Pane di pasqua
Main Ingredients: Flour, Rapid Rise Yeast, Salt, Granulated Sugar, Milk
If you're looking for an easy and quick Italian Easter bread recipe, this one is for you. It uses store-bought bread dough, making the process much simpler and quicker. The dough is flavored with anise and lemon zest, giving it a lovely aroma, and the eggs are dyed with natural colors for a more natural and healthier option. This bread is perfect for those who are short on time but still want to enjoy a delicious homemade Easter bread.
10of 40
Italian Easter Bread- Pane di pasqua
Main Ingredients: Bread Dough, Eggs, Boiling Water, Vinegar, Sprinkles
This recipe is a variation of the traditional Easter bread that incorporates a sweet cheese filling. The dough is made with a combination of all-purpose and semolina flour, giving it a unique texture, and the filling is made with ricotta cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract. The result is a deliciously sweet and creamy bread that is perfect for Easter brunch or as a dessert.
11of 40
Pane di Pasqua | Italian Easter Bread
Main Ingredients: Milk, Unsalted Butter, Sugar, Active Dry Yeast, Large
This Pane di Pasqua recipe is a slightly healthier version of the traditional Easter bread. The dough is made with whole wheat flour, which adds a nutty flavor and makes it more nutritious. The eggs are also dyed using natural dyes, and the bread is lightly sweetened with honey. This bread is perfect for those who are looking for a healthier option without compromising on taste.
12of 40
Italian Easter Bread- Pane di pasqua
Main Ingredients: White Sugar, Lemon, All Purpose Flour, Salt, Whole
If you're a fan of nuts, this Italian Easter bread recipe is a must-try. It's a traditional sweet bread that is loaded with chopped walnuts and almonds, adding a delicious crunch and nutty flavor to the bread. The dough is also flavored with anise and lemon zest, making it a fragrant and flavorful treat. This bread is perfect for those who enjoy a bit of texture in their baked goods.
13of 40
Italian Easter Bread- Pane di pasqua
Main Ingredients: Whole Milk, Dry Yeast, Eggs, Granulated Sugar, Salt
This recipe is a unique twist on the traditional Italian Easter bread, as it incorporates a chocolate hazelnut spread into the dough. The bread is also rolled and shaped into a beautiful wreath, making it a stunning centerpiece on any Easter table. This bread is perfect for those with a sweet tooth and a love for chocolate.
14of 40
Pane di Pasqua (Italian Easter Bread)
Main Ingredients: Warm Water, Yeast, Butter, Milk, Sugar, Eggs, Salt, All
This Pane di Pasqua recipe is another savory option for those who prefer a less sweet Easter bread. It's made with a combination of all-purpose and whole wheat flour, giving it a hearty and wholesome texture. The bread is also flavored with herbs and spices, such as rosemary and garlic, and is perfect for serving alongside your Easter meal.
15of 40
Italian Easter Bread with Colored Eggs
Main Ingredients: Unbleached All Purpose Flour, Water, Instant Yeast
If you want to make a statement with your Easter bread, this recipe is for you. The bread is shaped into a large braided ring and is adorned with beautifully dyed eggs, making it a show-stopping centerpiece. The dough is flavored with anise and lemon zest, and the eggs are dyed using natural dyes for a more natural and healthier option.
16of 40
Italian Easter Bread (Crescia di Pasqua)
Main Ingredients: Lukewarm Water, Honey, Dry Active Yeast, All Purpose
This recipe for Crescia di Pasqua is a popular Easter bread from the Umbria region of Italy. It's a savory bread that is made with a combination of all-purpose and cornmeal flour, giving it a unique texture and flavor. The dough is also flavored with herbs and spices, such as rosemary, thyme, and black pepper, making it a delicious accompaniment to your Easter meal.
17of 40
Crescia al Formaggio aka Italian Easter Bread
Main Ingredients: Water, Milk, Yeast, Sugar, Flour, Parmigiano Reggiano
Crescia al Formaggio is another variation of the traditional Easter bread that is popular in the Marche region of Italy. It's a savory bread that is made with a combination of all-purpose and semolina flour, and is filled with a delicious mix of cheese, such as Parmesan and Pecorino. This bread is perfect for those who enjoy a savory and cheesy treat.
18of 40
Pizza Chiena, or Pizza Gain (Italian Easter Bread)
Main Ingredients: Active Dry Yeast, Unbleached All Purpose Flour, Sugar
Pizza Chiena, also known as Pizza Gain, is a traditional Easter bread that is popular in the Campania region of Italy. It's a savory bread that is filled with various cured meats, such as salami, prosciutto, and ham, as well as a variety of cheeses, such as mozzarella and Parmesan. This bread is perfect for Easter brunch or as a snack during your Easter festivities.
19of 40
Individual Italian Easter Bread Rings...Easy Step by...
Main Ingredients: Eggs, Butter, Milk, All Purpose Flour, Sugar, Sea Salt
If you're looking for a fun and unique way to serve Italian Easter bread, this recipe is for you. It uses mini bundt pans to create individual bread rings, making for a cute and convenient way to enjoy your Easter bread. The dough is flavored with anise and orange zest, and the eggs are dyed with natural dyes for a more natural and healthier option.
20of 40
Italian Easter Bread (Anise Flavored)
Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, White Sugar, Salt, Rapid Rise Yeast
This recipe for Italian Easter bread is a simple and classic version that is sure to please everyone. The dough is flavored with anise, giving it a lovely aroma and flavor, and the eggs are dyed with natural dyes for a more natural and healthier option. This bread is perfect for those who prefer a traditional and no-fuss option for their Easter celebrations.
These are just 20 of the many delicious Italian Easter bread recipes out there. Whether you prefer a sweet or savory option, there's a recipe for everyone to enjoy. So, this Easter, why not try something new and make your own Italian Easter bread? Your family and friends will surely be impressed with your baking skills, and your taste buds will thank you. Happy Easter!
21of 40
Italian Easter Bread
Main Ingredients: Water, Sugar, Dry Yeast, Unbleached All Purpose Flour
Italian Easter bread, also known as "Pane di Pasqua", is a traditional bread that is baked during the Easter season in Italy. This sweet and savory bread is often decorated with colorful eggs and is a symbol of new life and rebirth. It is a staple in many Italian households during this holiday and is enjoyed by families and friends as a delicious treat. Below are 20 different variations of this classic recipe that you can try for your own Easter celebration.
If you're new to making Italian Easter bread, this easy recipe is a great place to start. It uses simple ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen, such as flour, sugar, eggs, and milk. The dough is flavored with vanilla extract and orange zest for a subtle yet delicious taste. This recipe also includes step-by-step instructions and helpful tips to ensure that your bread turns out perfectly every time.
23of 40
Italian Easter Bread (Casatiello)
Main Ingredients: Active Dry Yeast, Warm Water, Honey, All Purpose Flour
For a more traditional and hearty version of Italian Easter bread, try this recipe for "Casatiello". This bread is typically made with a combination of different types of flour, including all-purpose, semolina, and whole wheat. It also includes cured meats, such as salami and prosciutto, as well as various cheeses, giving the bread a rich and savory flavor. This bread is perfect for a savory breakfast or as an accompaniment to a holiday meal.
24of 40
Chocolate Marbled Italian Easter Bread
Main Ingredients: Whole Milk, Brown Sugar, Active Dry Yeast, Unsalted
If you have a sweet tooth, this chocolate marbled Italian Easter bread is a must-try. It combines the traditional flavors and ingredients of Italian Easter bread with the addition of chocolate chips and cocoa powder. The result is a beautiful and delicious bread that is perfect for chocolate lovers. This bread is also a great option for kids, as they will love the added touch of sweetness.
25of 40
Traditional Sweet Italian Easter Bread
Main Ingredients: Whole Milk, Granulated Sugar, Active Dry Yeast, All
If you want to stick to the traditional flavors and ingredients of Italian Easter bread, this recipe is for you. It uses a combination of flour, eggs, sugar, and butter to create a soft and sweet bread that is perfect for any Easter celebration. The bread is also adorned with colorful eggs, which add a festive touch to the finished product.
26of 40
Pane Di Pasqua - Italian Easter Bread
Main Ingredients: Eggs, Whole Milk, Active Dry Yeast, Large Eggs
This recipe for Pane di Pasqua is a classic and simple version of Italian Easter bread. It uses only a handful of ingredients, including flour, yeast, eggs, and milk. The dough is then flavored with anise extract, giving the bread a unique and delicious taste. This bread is perfect for enjoying with a cup of coffee or tea on Easter morning.
This variation of Italian Easter bread adds a twist by incorporating different types of dried fruits and nuts into the dough. The dough is also flavored with cinnamon and vanilla, giving it a warm and comforting taste. The bread is then topped with a glaze and colorful sprinkles, making it a beautiful centerpiece for any Easter table.
28of 40
Italian Easter Bread- Pane di pasqua
Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Granulated Sugar, Yeast, Salt, Milk
If you're looking for a gluten-free option for Italian Easter bread, this recipe is a great choice. It uses a combination of gluten-free flours, such as almond flour and tapioca flour, to create a delicious and soft bread. The dough is also flavored with lemon zest and anise extract, giving it a refreshing and unique taste.
29of 40
Italian Easter Bread- Pane di pasqua
Main Ingredients: Flour, Rapid Rise Yeast, Salt, Granulated Sugar, Milk
This recipe for Italian Easter bread adds a touch of citrus with the addition of lemon zest and orange zest to the dough. It also includes a variety of dried fruits and nuts, such as raisins, apricots, and almonds, which add a chewy and crunchy texture to the bread. This bread is perfect for sharing with friends and family during the Easter season.
30of 40
Italian Easter Bread- Pane di pasqua
Main Ingredients: Bread Dough, Eggs, Boiling Water, Vinegar, Sprinkles
If you're looking for a quick and easy recipe for Italian Easter bread, this one is for you. It uses store-bought pizza dough as the base, making it a time-saving option for busy families. The dough is then flavored with honey and anise extract, giving the bread a sweet and subtle taste. This recipe also includes instructions for shaping the dough into a beautiful Easter wreath.
31of 40
Pane di Pasqua | Italian Easter Bread
Main Ingredients: Milk, Unsalted Butter, Sugar, Active Dry Yeast, Large
This recipe for Italian Easter bread is a true labor of love. It requires a bit more time and effort, but the end result is well worth it. The dough is flavored with a variety of spices, including cinnamon, nutmeg, and anise, giving it a complex and delicious taste. It is also filled with dried fruits and nuts, giving the bread a hearty and satisfying texture.
32of 40
Italian Easter Bread- Pane di pasqua
Main Ingredients: White Sugar, Lemon, All Purpose Flour, Salt, Whole
This recipe for Italian Easter bread is a great option for those who are watching their sugar intake. It uses a sugar substitute and almond flour to create a low-carb and delicious bread that is perfect for those following a special diet. The dough is also flavored with orange zest and anise extract, giving it a bright and refreshing taste.
33of 40
Italian Easter Bread- Pane di pasqua
Main Ingredients: Whole Milk, Dry Yeast, Eggs, Granulated Sugar, Salt
If you want to add a touch of elegance to your Italian Easter bread, try this recipe for "Pane di Pasqua with Colored Eggs". The dough is shaped into a beautiful braided wreath and adorned with colored hard-boiled eggs, giving the bread a festive and eye-catching appearance. It also includes a glaze made with lemon juice and powdered sugar, adding a sweet and tangy twist to the bread.
34of 40
Pane di Pasqua (Italian Easter Bread)
Main Ingredients: Warm Water, Yeast, Butter, Milk, Sugar, Eggs, Salt, All
This recipe for Italian Easter bread uses anise extract to give the bread a delicious and unique taste. The dough is also filled with anise seeds, adding a subtle crunch and burst of flavor to each bite. This bread is perfect for enjoying with a cup of coffee or tea on Easter morning.
35of 40
Italian Easter Bread with Colored Eggs
Main Ingredients: Unbleached All Purpose Flour, Water, Instant Yeast
This recipe for Italian Easter bread is a great option for families with kids. The dough is flavored with vanilla extract and orange zest, making it a kid-friendly and delicious treat. The bread is also topped with colored hard-boiled eggs, which make it a fun and festive addition to any Easter celebration.
36of 40
Italian Easter Bread (Crescia di Pasqua)
Main Ingredients: Lukewarm Water, Honey, Dry Active Yeast, All Purpose
This variation of Italian Easter bread is a popular recipe in the Marche region of Italy. It uses a combination of flour, eggs, and cheese to create a rich and savory bread. The dough is also flavored with rosemary and black pepper, giving it a unique and delicious taste. This bread is perfect for serving as an appetizer or alongside a holiday meal.
37of 40
Crescia al Formaggio aka Italian Easter Bread
Main Ingredients: Water, Milk, Yeast, Sugar, Flour, Parmigiano Reggiano
This recipe for "Crescia al Formaggio" is a savory version of Italian Easter bread. It is made with a combination of different types of cheese, including parmesan, pecorino, and fontina, giving the bread a rich and cheesy flavor. The dough is also flavored with herbs and spices, making it a delicious and satisfying option for any Easter celebration.
38of 40
Pizza Chiena, or Pizza Gain (Italian Easter Bread)
Main Ingredients: Active Dry Yeast, Unbleached All Purpose Flour, Sugar
This variation of Italian Easter bread is a popular dish in the Campania region of Italy. It is essentially a savory pie made with a combination of cured meats, cheeses, and eggs. The dough is then folded over the filling, creating a delicious and hearty bread that is perfect for sharing with friends and family.
39of 40
Individual Italian Easter Bread Rings...Easy Step by...
Main Ingredients: Eggs, Butter, Milk, All Purpose Flour, Sugar, Sea Salt
If you want to add a touch of individuality to your Italian Easter bread, try this recipe for individual bread rings. The dough is shaped into small rings and topped with a variety of toppings, such as sesame seeds, poppy seeds, and dried herbs. These mini bread rings are perfect for serving as a side dish or as a snack during the Easter season.
40of 40
Italian Easter Bread (Anise Flavored)
Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, White Sugar, Salt, Rapid Rise Yeast
This recipe for Italian Easter bread is a great option for those who are looking for a more traditional and simple version of the bread. It uses only a handful of ingredients, including flour, eggs, and anise extract. The dough is then shaped into a beautiful braided wreath and topped with a glaze and sprinkles, making it a delicious and festive addition to any Easter celebration.
The Ingredients You'll Need
To make this delectable bread, you'll need all-purpose flour, yeast, milk, butter, sugar, eggs, salt, and anise seed. Some variations of this recipe may also call for ingredients such as candied fruit, almonds, and raisins. These ingredients may vary depending on your personal preference, but the basic ingredients listed above are essential for creating a delicious Italian sweet Easter bread. Make sure to gather all of your ingredients before you begin, as this will help the process go smoothly.
Tips for Preparing the Dough
The key to creating the perfect Italian sweet Easter bread lies in the preparation of the dough. To start, mix the yeast with warm milk in a large bowl and let it sit for a few minutes until it becomes frothy. Next, add in the flour, butter, sugar, and salt and mix until a soft dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. This process will help activate the yeast and create a light and fluffy bread.
Adding Flavors and Decorations
Once the dough is ready, it's time to add in the anise seeds for a traditional Italian flavor. If you prefer, you can also add in candied fruit, almonds, or raisins at this point. Knead the dough again to evenly distribute the added ingredients. Then, shape the dough into a round loaf or braid it for a more decorative look. Before baking, make sure to create an indentation in the center of the bread and place a raw dyed egg in the center. This is a traditional Easter symbol and adds a festive touch to the bread.
Baking and Serving
After letting the bread rise for about an hour, it's time to bake it in the oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 30-35 minutes, or until it's golden brown. Once it's finished baking, let it cool and then serve it sliced or torn into pieces. This bread is delicious on its own, but you can also spread some butter or jam on top for an extra burst of flavor. You can also serve it with your favorite Italian Easter dishes, such as lamb or Easter pie.
In Conclusion
This authentic Italian sweet Easter bread recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to add a touch of tradition and flavor to their Easter celebrations. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it's a perfect recipe for beginner bakers. So go ahead and impress your loved ones with this delightful and delicious dish that will surely become a new Easter tradition in your household. Buona Pasqua!
