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Greek Easter Bunny Bread

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Greek Easter Bunny Bread is a fun and festive twist on traditional Greek Easter bread, also known as Tsoureki. This sweet, soft, and aromatic bread is shaped like a bunny, making it the perfect centerpiece for your Easter celebration. The bread features hints of orange and anise, offering a delightful flavor with a whimsical presentation!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
  • ⅓ cup warm water (110°F)
  • ½ cup sugar
  • 5½ cups all-purpose flour (plus more for dusting)
  • 1 cup milk
  • 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon grated orange zest
  • 1 teaspoon anise seeds (optional)
  • Raisins or currants (for eyes)
  • Sliced almonds (for teeth)
  • 1 egg (for egg wash)
  • Cooking spray or oil (for greasing)

Instructions

  • Activate the Yeast:

    • In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast and 1 tablespoon of sugar in warm water. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.

  • Prepare the Dough:

    • In a large mixing bowl, combine the remaining sugar, flour, salt, orange zest, and anise seeds (if using).
    • In a separate bowl, mix the milk, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla.
    • Add the yeast mixture and the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients. Mix until a soft dough forms.

  • Knead the Dough:

    • Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
    • Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise in a warm place for about 1½ hours or until doubled in size.

  • Shape the Bunny:

    • Punch down the dough and divide it into pieces to form the bunny:
      • Body: Form a large oval for the body.
      • Head: Make a smaller round ball for the head.
      • Ears: Roll two long pieces for the ears and shape them into loops.
      • Cheeks: Make two small balls for the cheeks.
      • Nose: Form a tiny ball for the nose.
      • Tail: Roll a small ball and flatten slightly.

  • Assemble the Bunny:

    • Arrange all the pieces on a parchment-lined baking sheet to resemble a bunny.
    • Use raisins or currants for eyes and insert sliced almonds for the teeth.

  • Second Rise:

    • Cover with a clean towel and let rise for 30 minutes.

  • Preheat and Egg Wash:

    • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
    • Whisk the egg with a tablespoon of water and brush over the dough for a golden finish.

  • Bake:

    • Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.

 

  • Cool and Serve:

    • Let the bread cool on a wire rack before serving.

Notes

  • Flavor Variations: Add 1 teaspoon of ground mahleb or mastic for a traditional Greek flavor.
  • For Extra Sweetness: Sprinkle with powdered sugar before serving.
  • Storing: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Find it online: https://ukfinda.com/greek-easter-bunny-bread/