Easter Tsoureki (Greek Sweet Bread)

Easter Tsoureki is a traditional Greek sweet bread, soft and fluffy with a slightly chewy texture. Infused with aromatic spices like mahleb and cardamom, this beautifully braided bread is often topped with sesame seeds or decorated with red-dyed eggs for Easter. Its rich, slightly sweet flavor makes it perfect for breakfast, dessert, or as part of a festive holiday spread.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Authentic Greek Easter tradition – A must-have for celebrating Easter in Greek households.
• Rich, soft, and fluffy – The enriched dough makes it light, tender, and slightly chewy.
• Aromatic and flavorful – Mahleb and cardamom give the bread its signature taste.
• Versatile – Enjoy it plain, with butter, or even toasted with jam.
• Beautifully braided – Makes for an impressive Easter table centerpiece.

Ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• All-purpose or bread flour
• Active dry yeast
• Warm milk
• Sugar
• Eggs
• Unsalted butter (melted)
• Orange zest
• Vanilla extract
• Ground mahleb (optional but traditional)
• Ground cardamom (optional)
• Salt
• Red-dyed eggs (optional, for decoration)
• Sesame seeds or slivered almonds (optional, for topping)
• Egg wash (1 egg + 1 tbsp milk)

Directions

1. Activate the Yeast

1. In a small bowl, mix warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.

2. Prepare the Dough

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, mahleb, cardamom, and orange zest.
3. Add the yeast mixture, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
4. Mix until a sticky dough forms, then knead on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

3. First Rise

5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until doubled in size.

4. Shape the Tsoureki

6. Punch down the dough and divide it into three equal parts. Roll each part into a rope, then braid them together.
7. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet and tuck red-dyed eggs into the braid (if using).

5. Second Rise

8. Cover and let the dough rise again for 30-45 minutes until puffy.

6. Bake the Tsoureki

9. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
10. Brush the bread with egg wash and sprinkle with sesame seeds or almonds.
11. Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown and fragrant.
12. Let cool before slicing and serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 10-12 slices
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Rise Time: 2-2.5 hours
• Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
• Total Time: About 3 hours

Variations

• Chocolate Tsoureki: Add chocolate chips to the dough or drizzle melted chocolate on top.
• Nutty Twist: Mix chopped walnuts or almonds into the dough.
• Cinnamon-Spiced: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon for extra warmth.
• Stuffed Tsoureki: Fill the braid with Nutella, honey, or dried fruit before shaping.
• Mini Tsourekia: Divide the dough into smaller portions for individual braided rolls.

Storage/Reheating

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Refrigeration: Keeps for up to a week, but best enjoyed fresh.
• Freezing: Freeze wrapped in plastic for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Reheating: Warm slices in the oven at 300°F (150°C) or toast for a crispy texture.

FAQs

What is mahleb, and can I skip it?

Mahleb is a spice made from cherry seeds, giving Tsoureki its distinct flavor. You can omit it or replace it with a little almond or vanilla extract.

Can I make this bread without a stand mixer?

Yes! You can knead by hand for about 10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.

How do I make sure my bread is soft?

Use warm milk, don’t over-knead, and let it rise properly. Also, avoid adding too much flour.

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes! Skip the proofing step and mix instant yeast directly with the dry ingredients.

What if my dough is too sticky?

Add a little flour, one tablespoon at a time, but avoid making it too dry.

Can I make this dough ahead of time?

Yes! Let it rise in the fridge overnight, then bring it to room temperature before baking.

What do I serve with Tsoureki?

Enjoy it plain, with butter, jam, or even dipped in coffee. It also makes great French toast!

Why do Greeks put red eggs in Tsoureki?

The red-dyed eggs symbolize the blood of Christ and renewal in Greek Orthodox Easter traditions.

How do I get a shiny crust?

Brushing with egg wash before baking gives the bread a golden, glossy finish.

Can I braid the bread differently?

Yes! You can make a three-strand, four-strand, or even a round braided loaf.

Conclusion

Easter Tsoureki is a beautifully braided Greek sweet bread that’s rich, aromatic, and perfect for celebrating Easter. Whether enjoyed fresh, toasted, or even as French toast the next day, this traditional treat brings warmth and joy to any holiday table. Try it this Easter and enjoy a taste of Greece!

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