If you’re looking to impress friends and family with a show-stopping centerpiece for your spring celebrations, this Braided Easter Cheese and Apricot Bread Recipe is exactly what you need. This heavenly bread combines a soft, tender dough braided beautifully around a luscious farmers cheese filling studded with sweet dried apricots and fragrant orange zest. It’s the perfect balance of creamy, fruity, and subtly sweet, making every bite a delightful experience that’s as charming as it is delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Braided Easter Cheese and Apricot Bread Recipe comes together with simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients that each play a crucial role in creating its irresistible flavor and texture. From the instant yeast that gives it a perfect rise, to the fresh farmers cheese and tangy apricots that make the filling sing, every component is essential.
- Instant yeast (1 1/2 tsp): Ensures a fluffy, well-risen bread without long waiting times.
- Granulated sugar (3 tbsp plus 1 tsp): Adds the right touch of sweetness in both dough and filling.
- Warm milk (1/2 cup): Activates the yeast and adds tenderness to the dough.
- Unsalted butter (3 tbsp): Provides richness and a melt-in-your-mouth crumb.
- Egg (1 whole plus 1 yolk): Binds ingredients and contributes to the golden color of the crust and the creamy filling texture.
- Sea salt (1/8 tsp): Balances flavors and enhances sweetness.
- All-purpose flour (2 1/4 cups): The foundation for the bread’s soft yet structured crumb.
- Farmers cheese (8 1/2 oz): The star of the filling; it’s creamy, mild, and perfectly complements the sweetness.
- Dried apricots (1/2 cup, chopped): Adds chewy bursts of fruity brightness throughout the filling.
- Orange zest (2 tsp): Brings a fresh, citrusy aroma that lifts the entire bread.
- Water (1 tsp): Mixed into the egg wash to give the crust a beautiful sheen.
How to Make Braided Easter Cheese and Apricot Bread Recipe
Step 1: Proof the Yeast
Begin by combining warm milk, a teaspoon of sugar, and the instant yeast in a measuring cup. Stir gently and let this mixture sit for about 10 minutes. This step wakes the yeast up, creating a frothy starter that’s crucial for a light, airy bread.
Step 2: Prepare the Wet Ingredients
In a small bowl, whisk together one egg, the remaining sugar, and sea salt. Melt the butter until warm (not hot), and whisk it into the egg mixture. Finally, fold in your proofed yeast mixture. This blend ensures your dough will be flavorful and rich.
Step 3: Make and Knead the Dough
Place the flour in a large mixing bowl then pour in your wet ingredients. Use a spatula to combine until a dough forms. Turn the dough out and knead it by hand for about 10 minutes until it feels soft but no longer sticky. Form a smooth ball, place it back in the bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise at room temperature until doubled, about 1 1/2 to 2 hours. This rise is key to developing great texture and flavor.
Step 4: Prepare the Cheese Filling
While your dough is rising, crumble the farmers cheese in a medium bowl with a fork. Add sugar, egg yolk, chopped apricots, and orange zest, then blend everything together until creamy and well combined. This luscious filling is what makes the bread truly special.
Step 5: Roll Out the Dough and Add Filling
Once risen, punch down the dough and roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a 12″x9″ rectangle, about 1/8″ to 1/4″ thick. Spread the cheese and apricot filling evenly over the dough, leaving a half-inch border around the edges for easy sealing.
Step 6: Braid the Bread
Roll the dough tightly from the long side into a log, sealing the edge firmly. Slice it lengthwise to create two strands but keep them connected at one end. Twist the strands over each other starting from the attached end, creating a beautiful braid. Pinch the ends to seal. Place your braid, cut side up, into a greased loaf pan. Cover and let it puff up for 30 to 45 minutes, then brush generously with an egg wash made from an egg and water to get that golden shiny crust.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Bake your bread in the center of a 350°F oven for 35 to 40 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean. Let it rest briefly in the pan, transfer to a wire rack, and sprinkle powdered sugar on top for a delicate finishing touch. The result? A golden, aromatic, beautifully braided loaf that smells like pure happiness.
How to Serve Braided Easter Cheese and Apricot Bread Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a dusting of powdered sugar not only makes the bread look festive but also adds a subtle sweetness with each bite. You can also sprinkle some extra orange zest on top for a burst of citrus aroma that invites everyone to dig in.
Side Dishes
This bread pairs wonderfully with a spread of fresh butter or your favorite jam. It’s also delightful alongside a cup of tea or coffee during leisurely brunches. For a savory contrast, try serving it with smoked salmon or a fresh green salad for an elegant touch.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn this bread into a centerpiece by placing it on a decorative platter surrounded by fresh flowers or spring herbs like thyme and rosemary. Slice it neatly to showcase the beautiful filling swirl, and perhaps serve alongside small bowls of cream cheese or honey for dipping. It’s sure to spark conversation and compliments alike.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any bread left after your festivities, keep it fresh by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or placing it in an airtight container. Leftover slices will stay soft and enjoyable for 2 to 3 days at room temperature.
Freezing
This Braided Easter Cheese and Apricot Bread Recipe freezes beautifully. Wrap it well in aluminum foil and then place it in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge and then warm gently to revive that fresh-baked softness.
Reheating
To bring the bread back to life, warm slices in a toaster oven or regular oven at 300°F for about 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the texture gummy. A warm piece of this bread is simply heavenly.
FAQs
Can I substitute farmers cheese with another type of cheese?
Yes, you can use ricotta or cream cheese as alternatives, though farmers cheese provides a firmer texture and subtly tangy flavor that works best for this recipe.
What if I don’t have dried apricots?
You can swap dried apricots for other dried fruits like cranberries, cherries, or even chopped dried figs to add a different but equally delicious fruity note.
Is it okay to make this bread without braiding?
Absolutely! If braiding feels intimidating, simply roll the filled dough into a log and bake it as is. The filling and flavor will still shine beautifully.
Can I prepare the dough the night before?
Yes, you can refrigerate the dough after kneading and let it rise slowly in the fridge overnight. Bring it to room temperature before shaping and filling to make the process easier.
How do I know when the bread is fully baked?
The best way is to insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, the bread is done. The crust should also be a deep golden brown and feel firm to the touch.
Final Thoughts
This Braided Easter Cheese and Apricot Bread Recipe is a delightful way to celebrate spring and bring warmth to your table. It combines simple ingredients with timeless techniques to create a bread that is as beautiful as it is delicious. I can’t wait for you to try making it and share the joy it brings with your loved ones. Happy baking!
