Name: Italian Ricotta Easter Bread
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 2 h 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet); ¼ cup warm water; 1 teaspoon sugar; 4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup ricotta cheese; ½ cup sugar; ½ cup milk; 3 large eggs; ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; ½ teaspoon salt; Zest of 1 lemon (optional); 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash); Sprinkles or colored sugar (optional for topping); 2-4 dyed eggs (optional, for tradition)

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There’s something special about baking during the holidays—the warmth of the kitchen, the sweet aroma filling the air, and the joy of creating something from scratch. And trust me, Italian Ricotta Easter Bread is a tradition worth keeping. This beautifully braided, slightly sweet bread with a tender crumb and a hint of citrus is pure comfort. It’s the kind of treat that makes you want to slow down, savor each bite, and maybe even sneak a second slice. Whether you’re making it for Easter brunch or just because, this bread is bound to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love Italian Ricotta Easter Bread

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family gathering, hosting a festive brunch, or simply indulging in a homemade treat, this bread is versatile enough for any occasion. Here’s why it’s a must-try:

Versatile: Enjoy it fresh out of the oven, toasted with a slather of butter, or even turned into a decadent French toast the next morning.

Budget-Friendly: Made with simple pantry staples, this recipe gives you a bakery-style loaf without the high price tag.

Quick and Easy: While it looks impressive, the process is straightforward, and the dough is forgiving—perfect for beginners.

Customizable: Add your favorite flavors like vanilla, anise, or even a handful of raisins or chocolate chips for a unique twist.

Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of sweetness and fluffiness, making it a universal favorite.

Ingredients

Ingredients in Italian Ricotta Easter Bread
Here’s what makes this bread so irresistible. Each ingredient works together to create a soft, fragrant loaf that’s full of flavor:

Ricotta Cheese: The secret to a moist and tender crumb. It gives the bread a delicate richness without making it too heavy.

All-Purpose Flour: The foundation of the bread, providing the perfect structure for a soft and airy texture.

Sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness to complement the ricotta and citrus flavors.

Eggs: Essential for richness and structure, plus they give the bread that beautiful golden hue.

Butter: A little butter goes a long way in enhancing the flavor and tenderness.

Yeast: Helps the dough rise, creating a light and fluffy texture.

Milk: Activates the yeast and adds moisture to the dough for a soft, pillowy crumb.

Vanilla Extract: A warm, aromatic touch that enhances the overall flavor.

Orange Zest: The fresh, citrusy note that makes this bread extra special.

Salt: Balances out the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:

Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for a few minutes until foamy—this ensures your yeast is alive and ready to work its magic.

Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, beat together the ricotta, sugar, eggs, melted butter, vanilla extract, and orange zest until smooth and well combined.

Incorporate the Dry Ingredients: Gradually add flour and salt to the wet mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms. If it’s too sticky, add a bit more flour, a tablespoon at a time.

Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. A well-kneaded dough is the key to a beautifully textured bread.

Let It Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm spot until it doubles in size. This takes about 1-2 hours.

Shape the Bread: Divide the dough into three equal parts, roll them into ropes, and braid them together. Tuck the ends under to keep the braid secure.

Final Rise: Place the braided dough on a baking sheet, cover, and let it rise again for about 30-45 minutes until puffy.

Bake to Perfection: Preheat your oven and bake until golden brown and fragrant. The crust should be lightly crisp, while the inside remains soft and fluffy.

Cool and Serve: Let the bread cool slightly before slicing. Enjoy warm, toasted, or however you like!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 10-12 slices
Calories per serving: Approximately 220 kcal

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours

How to Serve Italian Ricotta Easter Bread

This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:

Toasted with a drizzle of honey or a pat of butter
Served alongside fresh berries and whipped cream
Turned into a rich and flavorful French toast
Paired with a warm cup of coffee or tea for a cozy treat

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:

For extra flavor, try adding a splash of almond extract or a pinch of cinnamon.
If your dough is too sticky, don’t overdo the flour—just sprinkle a little at a time while kneading.
To make it more festive, brush the top with egg wash and sprinkle with colorful sugar before baking.
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this bread without ricotta?
Yes, but the texture will be different. You can substitute with Greek yogurt or mascarpone for a similar effect.

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Absolutely! Just mix it directly into the flour without proofing it first.

How do I know when the dough is kneaded enough?
It should be smooth, slightly tacky, and elastic when stretched.

Can I add dried fruit or nuts?
Yes! Raisins, dried cranberries, or chopped nuts make great additions.

What if my dough isn’t rising?
Make sure your yeast is fresh and the environment is warm enough.

How do I make a softer crust?
Brush the baked bread with melted butter while it’s still warm.

Can I make mini versions of this bread?
Yes! Divide the dough into smaller portions and adjust the baking time accordingly.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
A quick toast or warm-up in the oven at 300°F for a few minutes works wonders.

Is this bread very sweet?
It’s mildly sweet, but you can adjust the sugar to your preference.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose?
You can, but it will be denser. Try using half whole wheat and half all-purpose for a better balance.

Conclusion

Italian Ricotta Easter Bread is more than just a holiday treat—it’s a warm, homemade hug in the form of a deliciously soft and slightly sweet loaf. Whether you’re making it for Easter or just craving a cozy baking session, this recipe is sure to impress. So grab your apron, roll up your sleeves, and let’s bake something amazing. Trust me, you’re going to love it!