Italian Easter Sweet Bread

Cudduraci is a traditional Italian Easter sweet bread, featuring a soft, brioche-like texture filled with creamy vanilla custard and dusted with powdered sugar. This delicate and lightly sweetened bread is perfect for spring gatherings, Easter brunch, or a festive holiday treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Soft and Fluffy Texture – The enriched dough creates a light, airy bread with a tender crumb.
• Delicious Custard Filling – A creamy vanilla custard adds richness and depth to each bite.
• Classic Italian Easter Tradition – A beloved recipe that has been enjoyed for generations.
• Beautiful Presentation – Arranged in a round pan, this bread looks elegant and inviting.
• Perfect for Celebrations – A stunning and festive centerpiece for Easter or spring gatherings.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Dough:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup warm milk (110°F)
• 2 large eggs
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Zest of 1 lemon

For the Custard Filling:

• 1 ½ cups whole milk
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 3 egg yolks
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon lemon zest

For Garnish:

• Powdered sugar (for dusting)

Directions

Prepare the Dough:

1. In a small bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
3. Add the eggs, melted butter, vanilla extract, and lemon zest to the yeast mixture.
4. Gradually mix in the flour, stirring until a dough forms.
5. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 8-10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
6. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Make the Custard Filling:

7. In a saucepan over medium heat, warm the milk until steaming (but not boiling).
8. In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar, egg yolks, cornstarch, and vanilla extract until smooth.
9. Slowly pour the warm milk into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to prevent curdling.
10. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring continuously, until thickened (about 5 minutes).
11. Remove from heat, stir in the lemon zest, and let cool completely.

Shape the Dough:

12. Once the dough has risen, divide it into small balls (about 2 inches in diameter).
13. Flatten each dough ball slightly and place a spoonful of custard filling in the center.
14. Pinch the edges together to seal the filling inside.
15. Arrange the filled dough balls in a round baking pan, placing them close together but not touching.

Bake the Bread:

16. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
17. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown on top.

Finish and Serve:

18. Let the bread cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar.
19. Serve warm and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours (including rising time)
• Servings: 10
• Calories: 280 kcal per serving

Variations

• Chocolate-Filled Cudduraci – Swap the vanilla custard for a chocolate pastry cream or Nutella filling.
• Citrus Twist – Add orange zest to the dough for an extra fruity aroma.
• Almond-Flavored Version – Replace vanilla extract with almond extract for a nutty flavor.
• Dairy-Free Alternative – Use almond milk and vegan butter in place of dairy ingredients.
• Nut-Studded Topping – Sprinkle slivered almonds over the bread before baking for added crunch.

Storage and Reheating

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Refrigeration: Keep refrigerated for up to 4 days. Warm slightly before serving.
• Freezing: Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before serving.
• Reheating: Warm in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5-10 minutes for a fresh-from-the-oven taste.

FAQs

What does “Cudduraci” mean?

Cudduraci is a traditional Italian Easter bread, often shaped into wreaths or small buns and sometimes decorated with whole eggs.

Can I make this bread ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough the night before and let it rise overnight in the refrigerator.

How do I prevent my custard from being too runny?

Make sure to cook the custard until thickened and allow it to cool before filling the dough.

Can I make individual rolls instead of one large bread?

Yes! Simply shape the filled dough balls and bake them separately on a lined baking sheet for individual servings.

What’s the best way to get a golden crust?

For a richer golden color, brush the top of the dough with an egg wash before baking.

Can I add a glaze instead of powdered sugar?

Yes! A simple lemon glaze made with powdered sugar and lemon juice would be a delicious alternative.

What type of yeast should I use?

Active dry yeast is best, but you can also use instant yeast—just mix it directly with the dry ingredients.

Can I make this without the custard filling?

Absolutely! The dough itself is lightly sweet and delicious even without a filling.

How can I shape the bread differently?

For a festive look, shape the dough into a braided wreath or a round loaf before baking.

What can I serve with this bread?

Cudduraci pairs wonderfully with coffee, tea, or a light citrus marmalade for an extra touch of sweetness.

Conclusion

Cudduraci is a beautiful, soft, and delicately sweet Italian Easter bread that’s perfect for spring celebrations. The combination of fluffy brioche dough, creamy custard filling, and a dusting of powdered sugar makes it a delightful treat for Easter brunch or any special occasion. Whether enjoyed warm with coffee or as part of a festive spread, this traditional Italian sweet bread is sure to impress!