Italian Ricotta Easter Bread is a cherished tradition in many Italian households during the Easter season. This sweet, soft bread is enriched with ricotta cheese, giving it a moist and tender crumb.

FULL RECIPE:

Ingredients

For the Bread:

4 cups all-purpose flour
½ cup granulated sugar
2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
1 cup ricotta cheese
½ cup whole milk
¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Zest of 1 lemon
½ teaspoon salt

For the Glaze and Garnish:

1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons milk
Colorful sprinkles (optional)

Directions

Prepare the Dough: Warm the milk to about 110°F (43°C) and sprinkle the yeast over it. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy. In a large bowl, mix the flour, sugar, salt, and lemon zest. Create a well in the center and add the yeast mixture, ricotta cheese, 2 eggs, butter, and vanilla extract. Stir until a dough forms.
Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Add more flour if the dough is too sticky. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Shape the Bread: Punch down the risen dough and divide it into three equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope. Braid the ropes together to form a loaf. For a festive touch, shape it into a circular wreath and tuck dyed, uncooked eggs into the braid (they will cook during baking).
Second Rise: Place the braided dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover with a towel and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
Bake the Bread: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Beat the remaining egg and brush it over the risen dough. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped. Let it cool on a wire rack.
Glaze and Garnish: Mix the powdered sugar and milk to create a smooth glaze. Drizzle it over the cooled bread. Sprinkle with colorful sprinkles if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12 of the loaf)
Calories: 250
Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 60mg
Sodium: 150mg
Total Carbohydrates: 36g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 12g
Protein: 7g

History and Significance of Italian Ricotta Easter Bread

Italian Ricotta Easter Bread is deeply rooted in the culinary traditions of Italy. This special bread has been a symbol of celebration, renewal, and family unity for centuries. Easter is one of the most important religious and cultural events in Italy, and food plays a crucial role in the festivities. Traditional Easter breads, such as this ricotta-enriched version, are often enjoyed as part of large family gatherings, where they serve both as a delicious treat and as a symbol of prosperity and new beginnings. While there are various regional variations of Easter bread across Italy, many share common elements, such as a soft, sweet dough and the incorporation of symbolic decorations like dyed eggs.

Symbolism in Italian Easter Bread

Easter bread is often shaped into different forms, each carrying a symbolic meaning. The most common shape is a braided loaf, which represents unity, family bonds, and faith. Some families form their Easter bread into a circular wreath, signifying the cycle of life and eternity. In many Italian households, colored eggs are placed within the braids before baking. These eggs are a significant part of Easter traditions, symbolizing rebirth and renewal.

The Role of Ricotta in Italian Baking

Ricotta cheese is an essential ingredient in Italian cuisine, commonly used in both sweet and savory recipes. It has a mild, slightly sweet flavor with a creamy texture, making it perfect for enriching baked goods. In Italian Ricotta Easter Bread, the ricotta enhances the softness of the dough while adding subtle richness. Ricotta is traditionally made from sheep’s milk in Italy, but cow’s milk ricotta is more common in other parts of the world. The cheese is made by reheating the whey leftover from cheese-making, a process that dates back to ancient times. Its name, “ricotta,” means “recooked” in Italian, referring to this traditional preparation method. Its versatility in baking showcases why it is such a beloved ingredient in Italian kitchens.

Regional Variations of Italian Easter Bread

Throughout Italy, different regions have their own unique takes on Easter bread. While the ricotta version is popular, other variations exist:

Casatiello (Naples) – A savory Easter bread enriched with cheese, cured meats, and black pepper, often enjoyed as part of Easter Sunday brunch.
Colomba di Pasqua (Milan and Northern Italy) – A dove-shaped Easter cake similar to panettone, made with a rich, buttery dough and topped with almonds and pearl sugar.
Pane di Pasqua (Sicily and Calabria) – A sweet, braided bread with colorful sprinkles and whole dyed eggs, much like the ricotta version but without the cheese.

Best Ways to Serve and Enjoy Italian Ricotta Easter Bread

Italian Ricotta Easter Bread is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways:

Breakfast or Brunch: Serve warm slices with butter, honey, or fruit preserves for a delightful morning treat. It pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or tea.
Dessert: This bread is sweet enough to be enjoyed as a light dessert. A drizzle of honey or a dusting of powdered sugar can enhance its flavor.
With Fresh Fruits: Fresh strawberries, raspberries, or citrus slices complement the mild sweetness of the bread.
Toasted: Lightly toasting leftover slices and serving them with ricotta or mascarpone cheese can create an even richer flavor experience.

Storage and Shelf Life

To keep Italian Ricotta Easter Bread fresh and delicious, proper storage is essential:

Room Temperature: Store the bread in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap for up to 3 days.
Refrigeration: While refrigeration is not necessary, it can help extend freshness for up to a week. However, the bread should be brought to room temperature before serving to restore its soft texture.
Freezing: This bread freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be stored for up to 2 months. To enjoy, simply thaw it at room temperature and warm it slightly before serving.

Tips for a Perfect Italian Ricotta Easter Bread

Use Fresh Ricotta: High-quality, fresh ricotta will give the bread the best texture and flavor. If the ricotta is too wet, drain it slightly before using.
Knead the Dough Properly: Kneading ensures the right gluten development, giving the bread its structure and softness.
Allow the Dough to Rise Fully: Proper rising time is crucial for achieving a light, airy texture. The dough should double in size before shaping and baking.
Don’t Skip the Egg Wash: Brushing the dough with egg wash before baking gives the bread a beautiful golden color and slight sheen.
Decorate for Festivity: Traditional Easter breads often feature colorful sprinkles or dyed eggs. This not only makes the bread more festive but also enhances its symbolic meaning.

Why You Should Try This Recipe

Italian Ricotta Easter Bread is more than just a delicious baked good it’s a connection to tradition, family, and culture. Baking this bread allows you to experience a taste of Italy’s rich culinary heritage while creating special memories with loved ones. Whether you’re making it for the first time or continuing a long-standing family tradition, this bread is a wonderful way to celebrate Easter. The combination of ricotta cheese, sweet dough, and festive decorations makes it a truly special treat that stands out from other holiday breads.

Conclusion

Italian Ricotta Easter Bread is a beautiful and meaningful addition to any Easter celebration. Its soft, slightly sweet texture, enriched with ricotta cheese, makes it a delight to eat at any time of the day. With its rich history, symbolic decorations, and versatility in serving, this bread is a must-try recipe for anyone looking to bring a piece of Italian tradition to their table.

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