Easter is one of the most festive and joyous occasions celebrated around the globe. It is a time to gather with family and friends, share meals, and indulge in sweet treats. One of the best ways to add a flavourful touch to your Easter celebrations is by baking delicious bread. Whether you prefer sweet or savoury, we have got you covered with our two fantastic bread recipes for Easter. So, let’s get started and fill your home with the aroma of freshly baked bread.
1. Hot Cross Buns
Hot Cross Buns are a classic Easter treat that you can make at home. These soft, fluffy buns are filled with warm spices, dried fruits, and finished with a sweet glaze. Here’s what you’ll need:
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1/2 cup dried currants or raisins
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon milk
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, mix together the flour, sugar, yeast, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice.
- Add the dried currants or raisins to the mixture and stir well.
- In a small saucepan, heat the whole milk, unsalted butter, and water over medium heat until the butter is melted and the mixture is warm.
- Add the warm milk mixture and beaten egg to the flour mixture and stir well until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-10 minutes or until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a damp cloth. Let the dough rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours or until it has doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and place them on a greased baking tray, leaving some space between each bun.
- Cover the buns with a damp cloth and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes until they have doubled in size.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake the buns for 15-20 minutes or until they are golden brown.
- While the buns are baking, mix together the powdered sugar and milk to make the glaze.
- Remove the buns from the oven and brush them with the glaze while they are still warm.
- Let the buns cool and serve them warm or at room temperature.
Nutritional Information
- Calories – 220
- Protein – 5g
- Fat – 5g
- Carbohydrates – 38g
- Fiber – 1g
Cooking Time
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Baking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours and 30 minutes
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Small saucepan
- Baking tray
Serving Suggestions
Hot Cross Buns are best served warm or at room temperature. You can serve them as is, or with a dollop of butter or jam.
Variations
You can add different dried fruits such as cranberries or apricots to the mix to give a different flavour. You can also add a dash of orange zest to give it a citrusy twist.
Substitutions
You can substitute the dried currants or raisins with dried cherries or chopped dates. You can also use almond milk instead of whole milk to make it vegan.
Storage
Store the Hot Cross Buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze them for up to 1 month.
Tips
- Make sure the milk mixture is warm and not hot, or it can kill the yeast.
- Don’t add too much flour while kneading as it can make the buns tough.
- Let the buns cool completely before storing them in an airtight container.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use a bread machine to make Hot Cross Buns?
- Yes, you can use a bread machine to make the dough, but you will need to shape the buns by hand.
- Can I make the buns ahead of time?
- Yes, you can make the dough the night before and let it rise in the refrigerator. The next day, shape the buns and let them rise before baking.
2. Cheesy Garlic Bread
Cheesy Garlic Bread is a savoury treat that is perfect for Easter brunch or dinner. This delicious bread is made with fresh garlic, mozzarella cheese, and butter. Here’s what you’ll need:
Ingredients
- 1 loaf of French bread
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Cut the French bread into slices, but not all the way through.
- In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper.
- Spread the garlic butter mixture on each slice of bread, making sure to cover both sides.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the bread slices.
- Wrap the bread in foil and bake for 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove the foil and broil the bread for 1-2 minutes or until the cheese is golden brown.
- Serve the Cheesy Garlic Bread warm.
Nutritional Information
- Calories – 220
- Protein – 5g
- Fat – 14g
- Carbohydrates – 18g
- Fiber – 1g
Cooking Time
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Baking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Aluminum foil
Serving Suggestions
Cheesy Garlic Bread is a perfect side dish for Easter brunch or dinner. You can serve it with pasta, salad, or soup.
Variations
You can add chopped fresh herbs such as basil or parsley to the garlic butter mixture to give it a fresh flavour. You can also use different types of cheese such as cheddar or parmesan.
Substitutions
You can use vegan butter and vegan cheese instead of regular butter and cheese to make it vegan.
Storage
Store the Cheesy Garlic Bread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the oven or toaster oven before serving.
Tips
- Make sure to spread the garlic butter mixture on both sides of the bread slices to infuse the flavour.
- You can use a garlic press to mince the garlic cloves quickly.
- Don’t broil the bread for too long, or it can burn the cheese