Tsoureki Easter Bread
Tsoureki Easter Bread is a delightful Greek sweet bread infused with aromatic orange and anise flavors. This soft, braided loaf, often enjoyed during Easter celebrations, envelops your home in a warm, inviting aroma. Perfect for family gatherings or special occasions, Tsoureki is not just a treat but a cherished tradition that brings loved ones together. With its stunning appearance and rich taste, this bread is sure to impress everyone at the table.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup whole milk (warm)
- ½ cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 3 large eggs
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1 tsp anise seeds
- Optional: Pearl sugar or slivered almonds for topping
Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until bubbly.
- In a large bowl, mix flour and salt; create a well in the center.
- Add melted butter, eggs, orange zest, anise seeds, and the yeast mixture into the well. Mix until combined.
- Knead on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth.
- Place in an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise for 1-2 hours until doubled in size.
- Punch down dough and divide into three pieces; braid them together.
- Place on parchment-lined baking sheet and let rise for another hour.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush with egg wash and sprinkle with toppings if desired.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: For a unique twist, add lemon zest or substitute regular milk with almond milk. Store leftover bread wrapped tightly at room temperature for up to three days.