Italian Ricotta Easter Bread

Ah, Italian Ricotta Easter Bread—just saying it out loud makes me think of warm, cozy kitchens and the sweet scent of freshly baked bread filling the house. Trust me, this is a recipe you’ll want to make for Easter, or really any time you’re craving a deliciously soft, sweet, and aromatic treat that’s perfect with a cup of coffee or tea. The ricotta adds a rich creaminess, while the golden-brown crust provides that satisfying crunch. And the best part? It’s so much easier to make than you might think. This bread has a way of bringing everyone to the table and spreading joy with every slice. You’re going to love it!

Why You’ll Love Italian Ricotta Easter Bread

This recipe isn’t just about making bread—it’s about creating memories. Imagine this: the warm bread cooling on the kitchen counter as you and your loved ones gather around. You slice into it and take that first bite—so soft, with just the right sweetness. Here’s why this recipe is a favorite:

• Versatile: It’s the perfect addition to any Easter meal, but it’s also great for breakfast, brunch, or even as a sweet snack during the day. It’s festive, yet simple enough for any occasion.
• Budget-Friendly: With a handful of pantry staples like flour, ricotta, and sugar, you can create something that feels indulgent without breaking the bank.
• Quick and Easy: While homemade bread may sound intimidating, this recipe is actually super beginner-friendly. No fancy techniques here—just mix, knead, and bake!
• Customizable: You can easily switch up the flavors by adding orange zest, vanilla, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon. Make it your own!
• Crowd-Pleasing: There’s just something about bread that makes everyone feel at home. This one is no exception—soft, sweet, and comforting, it’s bound to be a hit with the whole family.

Ingredients in Italian Ricotta Easter Bread

Here’s what you’ll need to make this soft, pillowy bread that will fill your kitchen with the most irresistible scent:

• Ricotta Cheese: The hero of this bread, giving it that rich, creamy texture. It keeps the bread soft and moist.
• Flour: The base of the dough, helping everything come together beautifully.
• Sugar: A touch of sweetness to balance the savory flavors and give the bread that delightful hint of sugar on top.
• Eggs: These help bind the dough together and add a little richness to every bite.
• Butter: A little butter makes everything better, right? It adds flavor and keeps the bread tender.
• Yeast: The magic behind that perfect rise, making your bread light and airy.
• Vanilla Extract: For a subtle aromatic sweetness that pairs so nicely with the ricotta.
• Lemon Zest (optional): A little zest to brighten up the flavor and give it a fresh, citrusy kick.
• Milk: Just a splash to help the dough come together and keep it soft.
• Salt: To enhance all the flavors and balance out the sweetness.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s get started on making this Italian Ricotta Easter Bread! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious, homemade loaf in no time.

1. Preheat Your Equipment

First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to make sure it’s nice and hot for baking. Grease or line a baking pan, so your bread comes out without any trouble.

2. Combine Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, milk, and butter. Mix until smooth. The butter should be softened, so it blends easily. Add in your sugar and vanilla extract, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely. Crack in the eggs and whisk until everything is combined into a creamy, luscious mixture.

3. Mix the Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, yeast, and salt. Make sure the dry ingredients are evenly mixed before adding them to the wet mixture.

4. Form the Dough

Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing as you go. Once everything is incorporated, knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes, until it’s smooth and elastic. The dough should feel soft but not sticky. If it’s too sticky, add a bit more flour, just a tablespoon at a time.

5. Let the Dough Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm spot for 1-1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size. This is the time to sit back, relax, and maybe take a moment to appreciate the smell of yeast doing its magic.

6. Shape the Bread

Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release any air bubbles. Roll it out into a log or oval shape, depending on your preference. Place it in the prepared baking pan and let it rise again for another 30 minutes.

7. Bake to Perfection

Now, it’s time to bake! Pop the dough into the oven and bake for about 30-40 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. The aroma filling your kitchen will be absolutely irresistible!

8. Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool for 10-15 minutes before slicing. Serve it warm, and enjoy every fluffy, sweet bite. It’s perfect on its own or with a bit of butter or jam!

How to Serve Italian Ricotta Easter Bread

This Italian Ricotta Easter Bread is perfect for so many occasions! Here are a few ideas for how to serve it:

• Breakfast or Brunch: Serve slices with a cup of coffee or tea. Add a little butter or your favorite jam for an extra touch of sweetness.
• Easter Feast: It’s the perfect side to your Easter dinner spread, alongside roasted lamb or baked ham.
• Snack Time: Enjoy a slice on its own in the afternoon, paired with a glass of lemonade or iced tea.

Additional Tips

Here are a few extra tips to make sure your bread turns out perfectly every time:

• Prep Ahead: You can make the dough the night before and let it rise overnight in the fridge. Just bring it to room temperature before shaping and baking.
• Zest It Up: Add a little lemon zest or orange zest for a fresh citrus note that elevates the flavor.
• Sweet Glaze: For an extra touch, drizzle a light sugar glaze over the cooled bread for a little sweetness.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use a different cheese instead of ricotta?
A1: Ricotta is key for the soft texture, but you can try mascarpone or cream cheese for a richer variation.

Q2: Can I make this ahead of time?
A2: Yes! You can prepare the dough the night before and store it in the fridge. Just let it come to room temperature before baking.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. It’s even better the next day, when the flavors have had time to settle.

Q4: Can I freeze this bread?
A4: Yes, you can freeze the baked bread for up to 1 month. Just wrap it tightly and let it thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

Q5: Can I double the recipe?
A5: Absolutely! Just make sure to use a larger pan and adjust the baking time slightly.

Conclusion

There you have it—your very own Italian Ricotta Easter Bread, fresh from the oven and ready to be enjoyed! It’s soft, sweet, and comforting, with just the right amount of richness from the ricotta. Whether you’re serving it for Easter or just as a treat any day, this bread will bring a little extra joy to the table. So go ahead—give it a try! It’s the kind of recipe that’s sure to become a new tradition in your kitchen. Happy baking!

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