Easy Easter Bread Recipe (Orange Almond Sweet Bread) Recipe

“`html

If you’re looking to fill your kitchen with the most delightful aroma this spring, you must try this Easy Easter Bread Recipe (Orange Almond Sweet Bread) Recipe. This luscious, braided sweet bread marries the bright zestiness of fresh orange with the delicate warmth of almond extract, topped generously with honey roasted almonds and pastel sprinkles for that perfect festive touch. Soft, tender, and just the right amount of sweet, it makes a stunning centerpiece for any Easter brunch or a charming gift for loved ones, bringing a genuine smile with every slice.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Easy Easter Bread Recipe (Orange Almond Sweet Bread) Recipe relies on simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients that each play a vital role in building its rich texture and tantalizing flavor. From the creamy warmth of whole milk and butter to the zing of fresh orange zest, every item matters to create a bread that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.

• Whole milk (1½ cups): Adds a creamy base that softens the dough and enriches flavor.
• Unsalted butter (6 tablespoons): Provides tenderness and buttery richness without overpowering.
• Almond extract (¼ teaspoon): Imparts a subtle, nutty fragrance that elevates the bread’s character.
• Granulated sugar (⅔ cup): Sweetens the dough just enough to balance citrus brightness.
• Orange zest (2 tablespoons): Packs a fresh, zesty punch that brightens every bite.
• Active dry yeast (4½ teaspoons): Essential for that perfect rise, creating a light and fluffy crumb.
• Kosher salt (1 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors, preventing the bread from tasting flat.
• All-purpose flour (6 cups plus extra): The backbone of the bread, giving structure and chewiness.
• Large eggs (3, plus 1 for wash): Provide richness and help bind the ingredients together.
• Cold water (1 tablespoon): Mixed with egg for a glossy, golden crust.
• Honey roasted sliced almonds (1 cup): Bring crunch and natural sweetness atop the loaf.
• Pastel sprinkles (1 tablespoon): Add a festive, eye-catching finish perfect for Easter celebrations.

How to Make Easy Easter Bread Recipe (Orange Almond Sweet Bread) Recipe

Step 1: Warm the Milk, Butter, and Almond Extract

Begin by warming the whole milk and butter gently over medium-low heat, stirring in almond extract as you go. Using an instant-read thermometer, bring this mixture up to around 120°-130°F to activate the yeast perfectly without killing it.

Step 2: Mix Sugar and Orange Zest

As the milk mixture warms, rub the granulated sugar together with the bright orange zest in your mixer bowl. This simple step releases aromatic oils and ensures that orange flavor infuses evenly throughout the bread.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

Add the yeast, kosher salt, and 2 cups of flour to the sugar and zest mixture. Mix gently on low speed to begin forming the dough’s base without jostling the yeast too much early on.

Step 4: Add Warm Milk Mixture

Pour the pleasantly warm milk and butter blend into the dry ingredients, beating at medium-low speed for 2 minutes. This step hydrates the ingredients, setting your dough on the path to soft and pillowy texture.

Step 5: Incorporate Eggs

Beat in the three lightly beaten eggs steadily for another two minutes. Eggs enrich the dough, contributing to its tender crumb and subtle flavor complexity.

Step 6: Gradually Add Remaining Flour and Develop Dough

Add the rest of the flour slowly, mixing until a soft dough starts forming. Then crank the mixer to medium-high and beat until the dough pulls away from the bowl sides, which will take about 5 minutes. You’ll notice the dough is still sticky — that’s a good sign of tender bread!

Step 7: Hand Knead the Dough

Turn the sticky dough onto a floured surface and knead it for 6-8 minutes, adding more flour as needed to keep it manageable. The goal here is to develop elasticity and smoothness, ensuring a loaf that is light but sturdy.

Step 8: First Rise

Butter a large bowl well, place the dough upside down inside, then gently turn it over so the entire surface is coated with butter. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and let it rise until doubled in size — approximately 1 to 1½ hours in a warm spot.

Step 9: Prepare for Shaping

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spray it lightly with nonstick spray. This setup ensures your beautiful braid won’t stick and will bake evenly.

Step 10: Shape the Dough into a Braid

Punch down the risen dough and divide it into three equal parts. Roll each into a 20-inch rope. Place the ropes side-by-side on your baking sheet, pinch one end together, and braid gently. Tuck the ends neatly under. Cover with lightly sprayed plastic wrap, let it rise again until doubled, about 30 minutes to 1 hour.

Step 11: Preheat Oven

Set your oven to 350°F, allowing it to come fully up to temperature while your dough enjoys its second rise.

Step 12: Apply Egg Wash and Toppings

Whisk one egg with cold water and brush this glossy egg wash over the braid. Then sprinkle the bread generously with honey roasted almonds and festive pastel sprinkles, focusing most toppings on the center where the loaf will spread and hold them best.

Step 13: Bake to Perfection

Bake for 40 to 55 minutes or until the bread is a beautiful golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped gently. Keep an eye toward the end of baking to ensure the almonds don’t burn.

Step 14: Cool Before Slicing

Transfer the loaf to a cooling rack and allow it to cool for about 30 minutes. This resting period lets the crumb set up perfectly so each slice is clean and tender.

Step 15: Enjoy!

Savor slices of this fragrant, beautifully braided Easy Easter Bread Recipe (Orange Almond Sweet Bread) Recipe warm or at room temperature — it’s love at first bite!

How to Serve Easy Easter Bread Recipe (Orange Almond Sweet Bread) Recipe

Garnishes

For a festive touch, add extra sliced almonds and a scatter of edible flowers or additional sprinkles on the table. A light dusting of powdered sugar can transform the loaf into a delicate showstopper perfect for welcoming guests.

Side Dishes

This bread pairs wonderfully with a spread of creamy butter, tangy cream cheese, or a drizzle of honey. Serve alongside fresh fruit or a robust cup of coffee or tea to balance the sweetness and highlight the orange-almond notes.

Creative Ways to Present

Consider slicing the bread and stacking the pieces on a tall tiered tray layered with pastel-colored napkins for an eye-catching Easter brunch display. You can also wrap small slices in cellophane tied with ribbon to give as charming homemade gifts to family and friends.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Easter bread fresh by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and storing at room temperature for up to three days. This keeps the crumb soft and the crust tender without drying out.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, slice the bread first, then wrap it tightly in plastic and foil before freezing. It will keep well for up to two months and thaw quickly when wrapped in a dish towel.

Reheating

To revive the bread’s fresh-baked softness, warm slices in a toaster oven or regular oven at 300°F for 5-7 minutes. Avoid the microwave as it can make the crust chewy instead of crisp and tender.

FAQs

Can I substitute almond extract with vanilla extract?

While vanilla extract is a lovely flavor, the almond extract gives this bread its signature nutty note that perfectly complements the orange zest. For the closest taste, it’s best to use almond extract or a blend of both.

Is it necessary to use honey roasted almonds?

Honey roasted almonds add a delightful sweet crunch that elevates the bread. However, you can substitute with plain sliced almonds if you prefer a less sweet topping, or even use chopped walnuts for a different twist.

Can I make this bread gluten-free?

This recipe relies heavily on all-purpose flour for structure, so substituting gluten-free flour will require a special blend designed for yeast breads and could alter the texture. Experimentation may be needed.

How can I tell when the bread is fully baked?

A golden brown crust and a hollow sound when tapping the bottom of the loaf are great indicators. You can also check the internal temperature with a thermometer; it should read around 190°F to 200°F.

Can I add dried fruit or chocolate chips to the dough?

Absolutely! Adding dried cranberries, chopped apricots, or even white chocolate chips can be delicious. Fold them in during the final stages of mixing or after kneading for an extra holiday treat.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like the joy of pulling a beautifully braided loaf fresh from the oven, especially when it’s this Easy Easter Bread Recipe (Orange Almond Sweet Bread) Recipe. With its perfect balance of citrus and nutty flavors, tender crumb, and cheerful festive look, it’s bound to become a beloved tradition in your home. So grab your mixing bowl and start baking — your Easter table deserves this showstopper!

“`

Print