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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Festive & Fun : Bright green swirls and sprinkles make it perfect for St. Patrick’s Day or Easter.
Sweet & Soft : A lightly sweetened dough with a tender crumb that’s irresistible.
Customizable : Add nuts, dried fruit, or chocolate chips for extra flair.
Perfect for Gifting : Beautifully braided and decorated, it’s ideal for sharing or giving as a homemade gift.
Crowd-Pleasing : Always a hit at holiday gatherings or family meals.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Makes 1 loaf
For the Dough:
3 ½–4 cups all-purpose flour , divided
1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
1 cup warm milk (110°F–115°F)
1/3 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup unsalted butter , melted
2 large eggs , room temperature
1 tsp vanilla extract
Zest of 1 lemon or orange (optional, for citrus flavor)
Green food coloring or 1–2 tsp matcha powder (for color)
For the Filling:
1/4 cup unsalted butter , softened
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 tsp ground cinnamon
Optional : Green sugar crystals or sprinkles
For the Glaze:
1 cup powdered sugar
2–3 tbsp milk
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Green food coloring (optional)
Optional Decorations:
Green sprinkles
Candy shamrocks
Edible gold dust
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In a small bowl, combine the warm milk, yeast, and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Let sit for 5–10 minutes , until frothy.
Step 2: Make the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 3 cups of flour and the remaining sugar.
Add the yeast mixture, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and citrus zest. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
Gradually add the remaining flour, 1/4 cup at a time, until the dough pulls away from the sides of the bowl but is still slightly tacky.
Step 3: Knead and Rise
Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes , adding small amounts of flour as needed, until smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat all sides. Cover with a clean towel and let rise in a warm spot for 1–2 hours , or until doubled in size.
Step 4: Prepare the Filling
In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, sugar, and cinnamon. Set aside.
Step 5: Shape the Bread
Punch down the risen dough and divide it into three equal portions. Roll each portion into a rectangle about 1/4-inch thick.
Spread the cinnamon-sugar butter evenly over each rectangle. Sprinkle with green sugar crystals or matcha powder for a festive touch.
Roll each rectangle tightly into a log, then braid the three logs together. Pinch the ends to seal and tuck them under for a neat finish.
Place the braided dough on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover and let rise again for 30–45 minutes , until puffy.
Step 6: Bake
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) .
Bake the bread for 25–30 minutes , or until golden brown. If the top browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil.
Step 7: Glaze and Decorate
In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. Add green food coloring if desired.
Drizzle the glaze over the cooled bread and decorate with green sprinkles, candy shamrocks, or edible gold dust.
Why This Recipe Works
Yeast Activation : Ensures the dough rises properly for a light, airy texture.
Cinnamon-Sugar Swirl : Adds sweetness and a pop of flavor inside the bread.
Festive Colors : Green dye or matcha makes the bread visually stunning for St. Patrick’s Day or Easter.
Variations to Try
Citrus Zest Swap : Use lime or grapefruit zest for a different citrus twist.
Nutty Addition : Fold chopped pistachios or almonds into the filling for crunch.
Chocolate Chips : Add mini chocolate chips to the dough for a sweet surprise.
Gluten-Free Option : Use a gluten-free flour blend and ensure your yeast is gluten-free.
Savory Twist : Skip the sugar and cinnamon, and fill with pesto or sun-dried tomatoes for a savory loaf.
Tips for Success
Kneading Magic : Proper kneading develops gluten, which gives the bread its soft, chewy texture.
Don’t Rush Rising : Allow the dough to double in size both times for the best results.
Storage : Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or freeze for longer storage.
Serving Suggestions
Holiday Brunch : Serve alongside scrambled eggs, fresh fruit, and coffee for a festive meal.
Romantic Touch : Wrap in cellophane and tie with a ribbon for a charming homemade gift.
Party Platter : Slice and arrange on a dessert table with other themed treats.
Final Thoughts
This St. Patrick’s Day Easter Bread is a delightful fusion of two beloved holidays, combining the sweetness of Easter bread with the vibrant green hues of St. Patrick’s Day. Its soft texture, festive colors, and customizable options make it a standout for any celebration—or just because. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or gifting to loved ones, this bread is sure to spread joy and luck.
Your turn! Have you ever made a braided bread before? Share your favorite variations or serving ideas below. 🍀
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