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Easter Bread with Mediterranean Herbs

  • Author: Lana
  • Total Time: 3 hours and 30 minutes

Description

Easter Bread with Mediterranean Herbs is a traditional, flavorful bread that brings together the richness of Mediterranean herbs and the light, soft texture of a sweet, yeasted dough. Often baked for Easter celebrations, this bread combines the fragrant notes of rosemary, thyme, and olive oil, creating a unique and delightful treat that pairs perfectly with your holiday feast. This bread is also a great addition to your table for any special gathering, offering a harmonious balance of savory herbs and slightly sweet bread.

Ingredients

Scale

Here’s what you’ll need to make your own Easter Bread with Mediterranean Herbs:

  • 1 cup warm water (110°F or 43°C)
  • 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
  • 1 tablespoon sugar (or honey for a natural sweetener)
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 teaspoons sea salt
  • 2 teaspoons fresh rosemary, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, finely chopped
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
  • 1 large egg (for egg wash, optional)
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional, for topping)

Ingredient Highlights for Easter Bread with Mediterranean Herbs

  • Olive Oil: Olive oil adds richness and moisture to the dough, enhancing the overall flavor and texture.
  • Fresh Herbs: Rosemary, thyme, and oregano are key to infusing this bread with Mediterranean flavor, offering a fragrant, savory edge to the dough.
  • Yeast: The active dry yeast helps the dough rise and creates the bread’s soft, airy texture.
  • Sea Salt: The salt enhances the flavors and provides a nice contrast to the sweetness in the dough.
  • Honey or Sugar: Both options are natural sweeteners that complement the savory herbs and enhance the flavor of the bread without overpowering it.

Instructions

Step-by-Step Instructions for Easter Bread with Mediterranean Herbs

Follow these simple steps to bake the perfect Easter Bread with Mediterranean Herbs:

Prepare the Yeast Mixture:

  1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar (or honey), and active dry yeast. Stir well and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy, indicating that the yeast is activated.
  2. Add Olive Oil and Herbs: Stir in the olive oil, rosemary, and thyme into the yeast mixture, allowing the herbs to infuse the water and oil.

Prepare the Dough:

  1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and sea salt. Make a well in the center of the flour mixture.
  2. Add Wet Ingredients to Dry: Pour the yeast mixture into the well of the flour and salt. Stir with a wooden spoon until the dough begins to come together.
  3. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes, adding a little more flour if necessary, until the dough is smooth, elastic, and no longer sticky.

Let the Dough Rise:

  1. First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning it once to coat it with oil. Cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

Shape the Bread:

  1. Punch Down the Dough: After the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release any air bubbles. Turn it out onto a floured surface and shape it into a round or oval loaf, depending on your preference.
  2. Place in Pan: Place the shaped dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet or into a lightly greased 9-inch round cake pan for a more traditional, circular shape.

Bake the Bread:

  1. Second Rise: Cover the shaped dough with a towel and allow it to rise for an additional 30 minutes, or until it has puffed up slightly.
  2. Preheat the Oven: While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  3. Egg Wash (Optional): If you want a glossy finish on your bread, whisk the egg and brush it over the top of the loaf. This will give the bread a golden shine when baked.
  4. Bake the Bread: Sprinkle sesame seeds (if using) over the top of the dough. Place the bread in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
  5. Cool: Let the bread cool on a wire rack for at least 10 minutes before slicing.

Serve and Enjoy:

  1. Slice and Serve: Once the bread has cooled enough to handle, slice it into thick pieces. Serve it with your favorite spreads, cheeses, or even as a side to a Mediterranean dish.
  • Prep Time: 1 hour
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12-14
  • Calories: 150-200 kcal
  • Fat: 7g
  • Carbohydrates: 25g
  • Protein: 5g

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Find it online: https://epicuremeals.com/easter-bread-with-mediterranean-herbs/