19+ Greek Easter Bread Recipe Mahlepi You Won't Believe The Taste!

Published on: Mar 10, 2024

Greek Easter bread, also known as Tsoureki, is a traditional sweet bread that is an essential part of the Easter celebrations in Greece. This delicious bread is made with a variety of ingredients, including mahlepi, a unique spice that gives it a distinctive flavor and aroma. In this article, we will explore the history and cultural significance of Greek Easter bread, as well as provide you with a professional and well-organized recipe to make your own at home.

Jump to Recipe

1 of 20

Greek Easter bread – Tsoureki

Main Ingredients: Milk, Dry Active Yeast, Bread Flour, Sugar, Salt

Greek Easter Bread - Traditional Tsoureki Recipe | Kitchn

Tsoureki (Greek Easter Bread) | Greek easter bread, Tsoureki recipe ...

Tsoureki - Greek Easter bread - Caroline's Cooking

Living in Hydra.: Tsoureki, the traditional Greek Easter sweet bread

If you're looking to add some Greek flair to your Easter celebration, look no further than this delicious recipe for Tsoureki, also known as Greek Easter bread. This sweet and flavorful bread is typically served during the Easter season and is a staple in many Greek households. Made with a combination of flour, eggs, butter, and aromatic ingredients like cinnamon and orange zest, Tsoureki is a bread that is not only delicious but also symbolic. The three-strand braided shape of the bread represents the Holy Trinity, making it a perfect addition to any Easter feast.

2 of 20

Tsoureki - Greek Easter bread

Main Ingredients: Bread Flour, Sugar, Mahlepi, Unsalted Butter, Milk, Dry

tsoureki (greek easter bread) | cait's plate

Greek Easter Bread Recipe (Tsoureki Bread) - Savoring Italy

Similar to the previous recipe, this version of Tsoureki is a delicious and traditional Greek Easter bread that is sure to impress your family and friends. The dough is enriched with honey and orange juice, giving it a sweet and tangy flavor that will keep you coming back for more. Aside from being a delicious treat, Tsoureki is also a symbol of hope and new beginnings. It is often given as a gift or shared among loved ones during the Easter season, making it a perfect addition to your holiday traditions.

3 of 20

Greek Easter Bread a.k.a Tsourekia

Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Eggs, Sugar, Mazola Corn Oil, Sweet

Tsoureki - Greek Easter sweet bread | my baking saga

Greek Tsoureki | Recipe (With images) | Tsoureki recipe, Recipes, Greek ...

TSOUREKI - GREEK PASCHA BREAD - ful-filled

Here's another variation of Tsoureki that is equally delicious and easy to make. This recipe uses almonds and raisins to add a bit of crunch and sweetness to the bread. The dough is also flavored with anise, giving it a unique and subtle licorice flavor. As with any traditional recipe, there are many variations of Tsoureki, and each family may have their own special twist on it. This recipe is a great base, but feel free to experiment with different nuts, fruits, and spices to make it your own.

4 of 20

Diane's Greek Braided Easter Bread

Main Ingredients: Active Dry Yeast, Milk, All Purpose Flour, Sugar

Braided Easter bread Greek Easter Bread, Easter Bread Recipe, Italian ...

Sweet Braided Easter Bread with Raisins - Valya's Taste of Home Bread ...

MUST HAVE EASTER RECIPES | Easter bread recipe, Best homemade bread ...

Sweet braided Easter bread stock photo. Image of homemade - 37950972

If you're looking for a more modern take on the traditional Tsoureki, this recipe is for you. This version of Greek Easter bread is made with a combination of whole wheat flour and all-purpose flour, making it a healthier option. It also uses olive oil instead of butter, giving it a rich and savory taste. Don't let the use of whole wheat flour intimidate you – this bread is still soft, fluffy, and full of flavor. Plus, the braided design makes it look impressive and perfect for any Easter brunch or dinner.

5 of 20

Traditional Italian Easter Bread

Main Ingredients: Flour, Dough, Sugar, Mahlepi, Salt, Warm Water, Active

Italian Easter Bread Recipe - Jessica Gavin

A traditional Italian Easter Bread recipe that’s easy to make! A ...

Italian Easter Bread Recipe: A Step-by-Step | Italian easter bread ...

Italian Easter Bread with Dyed Eggs Recipe | Foodal

While we're on the topic of Easter bread, let's switch gears and head to Italy for a moment. This recipe for Traditional Italian Easter bread, also known as Pane di Pasqua, is a sweet and festive treat that is popular in many Italian households. Made with a combination of flour, lemon zest, and anise liqueur, this bread is slightly different from Tsoureki, but equally delicious. It is often decorated with colorful sprinkles and colored eggs, making it a beautiful addition to any Easter table.

6 of 20

ROSEWATER + MASTIHA NO-CHURN ICE CREAM

Main Ingredients: Heavy Whipping Cream, Water, Mastiha, Rosewater

NO-CHURN ROSEWATER + MASTIHA ICE CREAM | Recipe | Ice cream ingredients ...

No-Churn Persian Ice Cream with Saffron and Rose Water (Bastani ...

Mastiha & Rose No-Churn Ice Cream | Recipe | Healthy homemade ice cream ...

No-Churn Strawberry Ice Cream • Freutcake

If you're in the mood for something cold and refreshing, this no-churn ice cream recipe is just what you need. Made with heavy cream and condensed milk, this ice cream is creamy and decadent. But what sets it apart is the addition of rosewater and mastiha, giving it a unique and delicious flavor. Mastiha, also known as mastic, is a resin from a tree that is native to the Greek island of Chios. It has a distinct flavor and is often used in Greek cuisine, especially in desserts. Combined with the delicate floral notes of rosewater, this ice cream is truly a taste of Greece.

7 of 20

Tsoureki

Main Ingredients: Dry Yeast, Lukewarm Water, Granulated Sugar, Unsalted

Tsoureki Paximadia or Tsoureki Biscotti | Mia Kouppa, Greek recipes

How to Make Tsoureki (A Complete Guide) - Souvlaki For The Soul

Back to Tsoureki, here's another recipe that is worth trying. This version uses almond milk instead of regular milk, making it a great option for those with dairy allergies or dietary restrictions. It also uses anise extract for a strong and authentic flavor. Despite the slight changes in ingredients, this Tsoureki is still soft, fluffy, and perfect for any Easter celebration. You can also add a touch of vanilla extract or orange blossom water to enhance the flavors even more.

8 of 20

Easy Greek Easter Bread

Main Ingredients: Active Dry Yeast, All Purpose Flour, Sugar, Milk

Greek Easter Bread Recipe | Wanderzest

Kitchen Stories: Traditional Greek Easter Bread

Quick Greek Easter Bread Recipe | CDKitchen.com

This recipe for Easy Greek Easter Bread is perfect for those who are short on time but still want to enjoy the flavors of Tsoureki. It uses store-bought bread dough, making it a quick and convenient option. Simply add the usual ingredients like eggs, butter, and orange zest to the dough and bake it in the oven. While this may not be the most traditional version of Tsoureki, it is still a delicious and easy option for those who want to incorporate it into their Easter celebration.

9 of 20

"magerista" (lamb Offal Soup)

Main Ingredients: Milk, Unsalted Butter, Plain Flour, Salt, Grated

Lamb offal soup - cOOking TiKi South African Recipes, African Food ...

Bike parking University of Oregon style! #UniversityofOregon Uo Ducks ...

Pickled Lamb Tongues Pickling Recipes, Cooking Recipes, Beef Marinade ...

Italian Meatball Soup Recipe, Meatball Soup Recipes, Healthy Crockpot ...

Now, let's move on to some savory dishes. This recipe for "magerista" is a traditional Greek soup made with lamb offal, such as the heart, liver, and lungs. It may sound intimidating, but trust us, the flavors in this soup are worth trying. The offal is cooked with vegetables and tomato sauce, giving the soup a rich and hearty taste. It is often served on Easter Sunday as a way to use up leftover ingredients from the traditional Easter feast.

10 of 20

Greek Potatoes

Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Water, Garlic, Lemon Juice, Dried Oregano

Greek Potatoes (super easy, so much flavor!) - Texanerin Baking

Greek Lemon Garlic Roasted Potatoes – 12 Tomatoes

Greek Roasted Lemon Potatoes (lemonates patates) | Olive & Mango

No Greek meal is complete without some delicious potatoes on the side. This recipe for Greek Potatoes is simple, but the flavors are anything but. The potatoes are roasted in the oven with lemon juice, garlic, and oregano, giving them a tangy and herbaceous taste. These potatoes are a great side dish for any meal, but they are especially perfect for Easter. You can also add some crumbled feta cheese on top for an extra touch of flavor.

11 of 20

Greek Chicken

Main Ingredients: Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts, Greek Seasoning

Best Ever Greek Chicken Marinade - Carlsbad Cravings

Greek Chicken and Rice Skillet - PureWow

This recipe for Greek Chicken is a staple in many Greek households and for a good reason. The chicken is marinated in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs, giving it a delicious and tangy flavor. It is then baked in the oven until golden and juicy. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion like Easter. It pairs well with Greek potatoes and a simple salad, making it a complete and satisfying meal.

12 of 20

Greek Salad Dressing & Greek Salad

Main Ingredients: Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Apple Cider Vinegar, Lemon

Easy Greek Salad Dressing - Pinch and Swirl

My Favorite Greek Salad Dressing Recipe - Meredith Rines

Best Greek Salad Dressing & Greek Salad - Dishing Delish

Homemade Greek Salad Dressing - Light & Lively Taste from your Kitchen

No Greek meal is complete without a fresh and flavorful salad. This recipe for Greek Salad Dressing is easy to make and adds a delicious tanginess to any salad. Made with red wine vinegar, olive oil, and oregano, this dressing is simple but packs a punch of flavor. Pair this dressing with a classic Greek Salad, which includes tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, kalamata olives, and feta cheese. It's a perfect side dish for any meal, or you can add some grilled chicken or shrimp to make it a main course.

13 of 20

Greek Moussaka

Main Ingredients: Eggplant, Butter, Chopped Onion, Minced Garlic, Ground

BEST Recipe For Greek Moussaka - Real Greek Recipes

Traditional Greek Moussaka recipe (Moussaka with Béchamel) - recipes ...

Easy Moussaka Recipe (Ultimate Guide!) - Scrummy Lane

Greek Moussaka is a classic dish that is often served during Easter. This hearty casserole is made with layers of sautéed eggplant, ground beef, and tomato sauce, topped with a creamy bechamel sauce. It is then baked until golden and bubbly. While it may take some time to prepare, this dish is worth the effort. It is full of flavor and is a perfect comfort food for any occasion.

14 of 20

Greek Lemon Chicken and Potatoes – Both Homers Would...

Main Ingredients: Chicken, Bone, Russet Potatoes, Kosher Salt, Freshly

Greek Lemon Chicken | Recipe | Greek lemon chicken, Greek chicken and ...

Greek-Lemon-Chicken-Vertical-3 | FoodLove.com

One Pan Greek Lemon Chicken and Potatoes | Recipe | Walnut chicken ...

Greek Lemon Chicken and Potatoes (Gluten Free) - Karinokada

This recipe for Greek Lemon Chicken and Potatoes is a one-pan wonder that is perfect for a quick and easy Easter dinner. The chicken and potatoes are roasted together in the oven with a lemon and garlic marinade, giving them a delicious and tangy flavor. This dish is perfect for those who want to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the holiday with their loved ones. Plus, the leftovers are just as delicious the next day.

15 of 20

GREEK BEEF STIFADO

Main Ingredients: Chopped Tomatoes, Cinnamon Sticks, Bay Leaves, Dried

Beef Stifado | Recipe | Beef stifado, Stew recipes, Beef

Beef Stifado - Souvlaki For The Soul

Greek beef stew with pearl onions (Stifado)

Stifado is a popular Greek dish that is often served during Easter. It is a hearty and flavorful beef stew made with beef, onions, garlic, tomato sauce, and spices. The secret ingredient that gives this dish its unique flavor is cloves. This dish is typically served with rice or pasta and is perfect for a big family gathering. It can also be made in a slow cooker for an even easier preparation.

16 of 20

Greek Pasta Salad

Main Ingredients: Barilla Rotini, English Cucumber, Grape Tomatoes, Red

Greek Rotini Pasta Salad Recipe | Barilla

20-Minute Greek Pasta Salad - An Easy Greek Pasta Salad Recipe

Here's another refreshing and flavorful salad that is perfect for spring and Easter. This Greek Pasta Salad is made with orzo pasta, cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta cheese, tossed in a lemon and herb dressing. It's a great side dish for any meal, or you can add some grilled chicken or shrimp to make it a main course. Either way, it's a delicious and easy addition to your Easter menu.

17 of 20

Greek Orzo Salad

Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Fresh Lemon Juice, Garlic, Salt, Freshly

Easy and Delicious Greek Orzo Salad | Healthy Fitness Meals

Greek Orzo Salad Recipe - Peas and Crayons Blog

Similar to the previous recipe, this Greek Orzo Salad is another great option for a refreshing and flavorful side dish. It is made with orzo pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, and feta cheese, dressed in a lemon and herb vinaigrette. This salad is perfect for potlucks or picnics, as it can be made ahead of time and is best served cold. It's also a great option for those who are looking for a lighter and healthier side dish.

18 of 20

Greek Turkey Burgers

Main Ingredients: Ground Turkey, Crumbled Feta Cheese, Kalamata Olives

The BEST Greek Turkey Burgers with Feta Tzatziki Sauce

Grilled Greek Turkey Burger | Virtually Homemade: Grilled Greek Turkey ...

Greek Turkey Burgers | Citymeals on Wheels

If you're tired of traditional burgers, why not switch things up with these Greek Turkey Burgers? Made with ground turkey, feta cheese, and spinach, these burgers are flavorful and healthy. They are also topped with a tzatziki sauce, adding a cool and tangy element to the dish. Serve these burgers with some Greek Potatoes or a simple side salad for a complete and satisfying meal. They are perfect for a casual Easter lunch or dinner.

19 of 20

Greek Chicken Gyros with Tzatziki Sauce

Main Ingredients: Chicken Breast, Greek Yogurt, Fresh Lemon Juice, Extra

Homemade Chicken Gyro with Tzatziki - Recipe Ocean

Greek Chicken Gyros - Damn Delicious

Chicken Gyros Recipe With Tzatziki Sauce - Real Greek Recipes | Recipe ...

Gyros are a popular Greek dish that is often found in street food stalls and restaurants. This recipe for Greek Chicken Gyros is an easy and delicious way to enjoy this flavorful dish at home. The chicken is marinated in lemon juice, garlic, and oregano, and then grilled to perfection. The gyros are then assembled with pita bread, tzatziki sauce, and your choice of toppings, such as tomatoes, onions, and feta cheese. It's a fun and interactive meal that is perfect for a family gathering.

20 of 20

Greek Quesadillas

Main Ingredients: Flour Tortillas, Frozen Chopped Spinach, Sun Dried

Greek quesadillas with tsatziki - Scrummy Lane

Greek Quesadillas with Spicy Yogurt Sauce - Baked Ambrosia

Gluten Free Greek Quesadillas - Chebe Recipes

If you're looking for a unique and fun way to incorporate Greek flavors into your Easter celebration, give these Greek Quesadillas a try. Made with spinach, feta cheese, and olives, these quesadillas are a tasty fusion of Mexican and Greek cuisines. Serve them as an appetizer or a main course, either way, they are sure to be a hit with your family and friends. You can also add some grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier version.

The History and Cultural Significance of Greek Easter Bread

The Origins of Tsoureki

The origins of Greek Easter bread can be traced back to ancient Greece, where it was traditionally made as an offering to the gods during religious ceremonies. Over time, this bread became associated with the Easter holiday, as it was believed to symbolize the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Today, Greek Easter bread is a beloved tradition that is passed down from generation to generation, and is an integral part of the Greek Orthodox Easter celebrations.

The Importance of Mahlepi

One of the key ingredients in Greek Easter bread is mahlepi, also known as mahlab or mahaleb. This spice is made from the ground seeds of the St. Lucie cherry tree, which is native to the Mediterranean region. Mahlepi has a sweet and nutty flavor, and is often described as having hints of almond, cherry, and rose. It is a crucial element in giving Greek Easter bread its unique taste and aroma.

The Symbolism of Greek Easter Bread

Aside from its delicious flavor, Greek Easter bread also holds a significant symbolic meaning. The three strands of the braided bread represent the Holy Trinity, while the red-dyed eggs placed on top of the bread symbolize the blood of Christ. The bread itself is also shaped into a circle, representing the cycle of life and the resurrection of Jesus.

How to Make Greek Easter Bread with Mahlepi

Now that you understand the history and cultural significance of Greek Easter bread, it's time to make your own at home! Follow this professional and well-organized recipe to create a delicious and authentic Tsoureki.

Ingredients:

4 ½ cups of all-purpose flour
1 cup of warm milk
1 cup of granulated sugar
1 ½ tablespoons of active dry yeast
1 teaspoon of mahlepi powder
½ teaspoon of salt
1 stick of unsalted butter, softened
3 eggs, room temperature
1 egg yolk, beaten (for egg wash)
Red food coloring (optional)

Instructions:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 10 minutes until the yeast becomes foamy.
Add in the flour, mahlepi powder, and salt. Mix until a dough forms.
On a floured surface, knead the dough for 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let it rise for 1 hour.
Punch down the dough and divide it into three equal parts. Roll each part into a long rope and braid them together.
Place the braided bread on a greased baking sheet and cover with a towel. Let it rise for another 30 minutes.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
If desired, add a few drops of red food coloring to the beaten egg yolk and brush it on top of the bread.
Bake the bread for 30-40 minutes, or until it turns golden brown.
Let the bread cool before slicing and enjoying with your loved ones.

In conclusion, Greek Easter bread or Tsoureki is not just a delicious treat but also a significant tradition that holds a deep cultural and religious meaning for the Greek Orthodox community. By incorporating the unique spice of mahlepi, this bread becomes a symbol of the resurrection of Jesus and a cherished part of Easter celebrations. So why not try making your own Greek Easter bread this year and experience its rich history and flavors for yourself?