Greek Easter Bunny Bread

Name: Greek Easter Bunny Bread
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 4 cups all-purpose flour; 2 tsp active dry yeast; 2 tbsp granulated sugar; 1 cup warm milk; 3 large eggs; ½ cup unsalted butter, melted; Zest of 1 orange; Zest of 1 lemon; 1 tsp ground mastic (optional); Pearl sugar for topping

Published: March 26, 2025

by Molly white

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This delightful Greek Easter Bunny Bread is surprisingly easy to make and perfect for sharing with loved ones.
Its unique flavor profile combines spices and citrus for a heavenly taste experience.
The visual appeal is undeniable—the adorable bunny shape is sure to impress friends and family alike.
Enjoy it as breakfast or dessert—this bread is wonderfully versatile!

Sharing this recipe brings back fond memories of family gatherings when we’d gather around the kitchen for baking adventures.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

All-Purpose Flour: Use high-quality flour for the best texture; it helps create that fluffy consistency.
Active Dry Yeast: Fresh yeast makes all the difference—proof it well for maximum rise.
Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness; feel free to adjust according to your taste preferences.
Milk: Warm milk creates a tender crumb; make sure it’s not too hot or it will kill the yeast.
Eggs: Large eggs contribute richness and moisture; they also help bind everything together beautifully.
Butter: Unsalted butter adds flavor; melt it before mixing into the dough for even distribution.
Zest of Orange and Lemon: These citrus zests bring brightness and fragrance to the bread.
Ground Mastic (optional): For an authentic touch; this resin adds a distinctive flavor reminiscent of traditional Greek baking.
Pearl Sugar (for topping): Adds a delightful crunch and sweetness that contrasts perfectly with the soft bread beneath.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare Your Dough: Start by warming 1 cup of milk until it’s lukewarm—think cozy bath temperature—and pour it into a bowl. Sprinkle in 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar along with 2 teaspoons of active dry yeast. Allow it to sit for about 10 minutes until foamy—this part is like magic!

Add Dry Ingredients: In another large bowl, whisk together 4 cups of all-purpose flour, ensuring there are no lumps. Add zest from half an orange and half a lemon along with optional ground mastic if you’re feeling adventurous. Mixing these ingredients will create an aromatic base.

Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat 3 large eggs together with melted unsalted butter (about ½ cup) until smooth. Combine this mixture into your foamy yeast bowl—it’s time to mix everything up!

Knead Your Dough: Gradually add your dry ingredient mix into the wet mixture while stirring until combined. Once incorporated, turn out your dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic—you’ll know it’s ready when you can stretch it without tearing.

Let It Rise!: Place your kneaded dough into a greased bowl and cover it with a damp cloth. Let it rise in a warm spot until doubled in size—about 1 hour should do the trick! Resist the urge to peek too often—it’s worth the wait.

Bunny Shape Magic!: Once risen, punch down your dough gently to release air bubbles before dividing it into three equal parts. Roll each part into long ropes (about 12 inches long) and braid them together to form your bunny shape—it’s easier than you think!

After shaping your bunny bread, let it rise again on a parchment-lined baking sheet while preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Before baking, brush the top with egg wash and sprinkle pearl sugar generously over it.

Once baked to golden perfection (about 25-30 minutes), let cool slightly before serving! Enjoy this whimsical creation as part of your holiday celebrations or anytime you need a sweet pick-me-up.

Now that you have mastered this delightful Greek Easter Bunny Bread recipe, go ahead and bask in those compliments from friends and family! Happy baking!

You Must Know

This delightful Greek Easter Bunny Bread is not just a treat; it brings joy to any celebration.
The sweet aroma of baking bread fills the air, making it impossible to resist.
Its whimsical shape adds charm to your holiday table, creating lasting memories with family and friends.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by mixing the ingredients for the dough, then allow it to rise until doubled in size. Shape the dough into bunnies, let them proof, and bake until golden brown for a delightful finish.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to experiment with fillings such as chocolate or nuts. You can also glaze with honey or sprinkle with sesame seeds for extra flavor and texture.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover bunny bread wrapped tightly in plastic wrap at room temperature for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes for that freshly baked taste.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To achieve a fluffy texture, ensure your yeast is fresh and activate it properly before use.
Knead your dough thoroughly to develop gluten, which gives it structure and chewiness.
Always preheat your oven; a hot start helps create a beautifully risen loaf.

Sharing this recipe always brings back memories of my grandmother’s kitchen filled with laughter and delicious smells. Every Easter, her bunny bread would disappear faster than you could say “kali orexi!”

FAQ

What is Greek Easter Bunny Bread?

Greek Easter Bunny Bread is a sweet, braided bread shaped like a bunny, traditionally made during Easter celebrations.

How long does it take to bake Greek Easter Bunny Bread?

It typically takes about 25-30 minutes at 350°F to achieve that golden-brown perfection.

Can I freeze Greek Easter Bunny Bread?

Yes, you can freeze it! Just wrap tightly and store for up to three months for optimal freshness.

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