Easter Tsoureki
Easter is a time for celebration, and what better way to honor the holiday than by baking a batch of delicious Easter Tsoureki? This traditional Greek bread is not only a treat for the eyes with its braided shape and vibrant red egg adornment but also a delight for the taste buds with its sweet and aromatic flavor. Perfect for sharing with loved ones or gifting as a thoughtful gesture, this recipe will surely become a favorite in your Easter repertoire.
Ingredients
Instructions
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In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until foamy.
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In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sugar, flour, salt, optional mahlab, optional mastiha, and orange zest.
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Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the yeast mixture. Add the eggs and melted butter.
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Mix everything together using a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms.
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Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead it for about 10-15 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. You can also use a stand mixer with a dough hook for this step.
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Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl. Cover it with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.
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Punch down the dough and divide it into three equal portions. Roll each portion into a long rope about 1 1/2 inches thick.
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Braid the three ropes together, pinching the ends and tucking them under the loaf to seal.
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Place the braided dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Nestle the red egg in the center of the braid. If desired, sprinkle with sliced almonds or sesame seeds.
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Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise again for about 30-45 minutes.
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
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Brush the risen dough with the egg wash, making sure to coat the entire surface.
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Bake the Easter Tsoureki in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped on the bottom.
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Allow the bread to cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving. Enjoy this festive treat with a cup of tea or coffee!
Nutrition Facts
Serving size: 1 slice- Calories
- 280 kcal
- Total Fat
- 9 g
- Saturated Fat
- 5 g
- Cholesterol
- 85 mg
- Sodium
- 200 mg
- Total Carbohydrate
- 42 g
- Dietary Fiber
- 2 g
- Sugars
- 10 g
- Protein
- 8 g
By following this simple and rewarding recipe, you can create a stunning Easter Tsoureki that will bring joy and warmth to your home during the holiday season. Happy baking and Happy Easter!