Easter Tsoureki

Easter is a time for celebration, and what better way to honor the holiday than by baking a batch of delicious Easter Tsoureki? This traditional Greek bread is not only a treat for the eyes with its braided shape and vibrant red egg adornment but also a delight for the taste buds with its sweet and aromatic flavor. Perfect for sharing with loved ones or gifting as a thoughtful gesture, this recipe will surely become a favorite in your Easter repertoire.

**Easter Tsoureki**

**Ingredients:**

– 1 cup warm milk
– 1 package (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 5 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1 tsp ground mahlab (optional for flavor)
– 1 tsp ground mastiha (optional for flavor)
– Zest of 1 orange
– 3 eggs
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 red dyed or natural egg, for decoration
– Sliced almonds or sesame seeds (optional for topping)
– Egg wash (1 egg beaten with 1 tsp water)

**Instructions:**

1. In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until foamy.

2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sugar, flour, salt, optional mahlab, optional mastiha, and orange zest.

3. Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the yeast mixture. Add the eggs and melted butter.

4. Mix everything together using a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms.

5. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead it for about 10-15 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. You can also use a stand mixer with a dough hook for this step.

6. Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl. Cover it with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.

7. Punch down the dough and divide it into three equal portions. Roll each portion into a long rope about 1 1/2 inches thick.

8. Braid the three ropes together, pinching the ends and tucking them under the loaf to seal.

9. Place the braided dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Nestle the red egg in the center of the braid. If desired, sprinkle with sliced almonds or sesame seeds.

10. Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise again for about 30-45 minutes.

11. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).

12. Brush the risen dough with the egg wash, making sure to coat the entire surface.

13. Bake the Easter Tsoureki in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped on the bottom.

14. Allow the bread to cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving. Enjoy this festive treat with a cup of tea or coffee!

By following this simple and rewarding recipe, you can create a stunning Easter Tsoureki that will bring joy and warmth to your home during the holiday season. Happy baking and Happy Easter!