Italian Easter Bread Recipe

Italian Easter bread, also known as Pane di Pasqua or Columba di Pasqua, is a traditional sweet bread that is often baked in a dove or cross shape and is similar in texture to a panettone. It is typically flavored with citrus and vanilla, and may contain raisins, candied fruit, or almonds. Here is a recipe for Italian Easter bread:

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup warm water
• 1 package active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 4 eggs
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
• 1 teaspoon grated orange zest
• 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup raisins (optional)
• 1/2 cup chopped candied fruit (optional)
• 1/4 cup sliced almonds (optional)
• 1 egg yolk
• 1 tablespoon milk

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water and let it sit for 5 minutes.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sugar and eggs and beat until fluffy.
3. Add the softened butter, milk, vanilla extract, salt, lemon zest, and orange zest to the mixing bowl and beat until smooth.
4. Gradually add the flour to the mixing bowl, stirring until a soft dough forms.
5. If using raisins, candied fruit, or almonds, fold them into the dough now.
6. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for 5-10 minutes, until it is smooth and elastic.
7. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
8. Preheat your Ninja Foodi on the bake function to 350°F.
9. Punch down the dough and divide it into two equal portions.
10. Shape each portion into a dove or cross shape and place it onto a greased baking sheet.
11. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolk and milk. Brush the mixture over the top of each bread.
12. If desired, sprinkle sliced almonds over the top of each bread.
13. Bake the bread in the preheated Ninja Foodi for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped.
14. Remove the bread from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack.