Ingredients

3 cups all-purpose flour , divided
1/4 cup white sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1 ( .25 ounce ) package rapid rise yeast
2/3 cup milk
1 teaspoon anise extract
2 tablespoons butter at room temperature
2 eggs
1 egg , beaten
1/2 tablespoon colored candy decorating dragees , or as desired
Italian Easter Bread (Pane di Pasqua all’anice) is a traditional Italian bread that is baked during the Easter period in Italy. Italian Easter Bread is enjoyed during Easter festivities and has a long history in Italy. This bread is usually flavored with anise extract, which gives it a unique flavor. In Italy, it is usually baked on Good Friday and eaten during the Easter holiday. This recipe is easy to make and will give you a taste of a traditional Easter bread.

Instructions

1.In a large bowl, mix together 2 cups of flour, sugar, salt, and yeast.
2.Heat milk in a small saucepan until it becomes warm. Add anise extract and butter to the milk and stir well until the butter is melted.
3.Pour the warm milk mixture into the flour mixture and stir until smooth. Add two eggs and another cup of flour, stirring until the dough pulls away from the bowl.
4.On a floured surface, knead the dough for 6-8 minutes until smooth and elastic. Return the dough to a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise for 1 hour.
5.Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease a baking sheet.
6.Punch the dough down and divide it into three equal parts. Roll each part out into a rope and braid them together, pinching the ends to seal. Place the braid on the prepared baking sheet and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
7.Brush beaten egg over the top of the braid and sprinkle with colored candy decorating dragees.
8.Bake in preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
9.Let the bread cool for 10 minutes before serving.

PROS

Italian Easter Bread is a tradition for Easter, and this recipe celebrates the tradition by adding anise extract, making it unique and flavorful.

CONS

This bread is high in calories and carbohydrates.
Therefore, it should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Also, the recipe includes candy decorating dragees, which are high in sugar.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Anise extract in this recipe is a great digestive aid. This ingredient also has anti-inflammatory properties and helps fight free radicals due to its high antioxidant content, which is good for overall health. Bread is also a good source of energy and fiber.

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