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Perfect Lemon Glazed Easter Bunny Bread Loaf

lemon glazed easter bunny bread loaf - featured image

A soft, fluffy bread loaf shaped like a bunny and topped with a fresh, tangy lemon glaze. Perfect for spring celebrations and Easter brunch.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour (440 g)
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar (50 g)
  • 2 ¼ teaspoons instant yeast (one packet)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup whole milk, warmed (about 110°F/43°C)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened (56 g)
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • Lemon zest from 1 large lemon
  • 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted (120 g)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (30 ml)
  • 1 tablespoon milk (15 ml) (can use almond or oat milk for dairy-free option)
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Instructions

  1. Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warmed milk (110°F/43°C) with the sugar and instant yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
  2. Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and lemon zest until evenly combined.
  3. Add wet ingredients: Pour the yeast mixture into the dry ingredients. Add softened butter and eggs, then mix with a wooden spoon or stand mixer on low speed until the dough starts to come together.
  4. Knead the dough: Knead by hand on a floured surface or with a dough hook for about 8–10 minutes until smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky but not sticky.
  5. First rise: Lightly oil a large bowl and place the dough inside, turning to coat. Cover and let rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
  6. Shape the bunny: Punch down the dough and divide into portions for the bunny’s body, ears, arms, and tail. Shape and attach parts gently on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  7. Second rise: Cover loosely and let rise for another 30–40 minutes until puffy.
  8. Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden brown and hollow sounding when tapped. Tent ears with foil if browning too fast.
  9. Cool and glaze: Cool on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes. Whisk powdered sugar, lemon juice, milk, and vanilla for glaze. Drizzle over warm bread.

Notes

If dough is too sticky during shaping, dampen hands slightly instead of adding more flour to keep bread soft. Use fresh lemon zest for best flavor. Glaze while bread is warm for best absorption. For gluten-free or vegan versions, substitute ingredients as suggested.

Nutrition

Keywords: lemon bread, Easter bread, bunny bread, lemon glaze, spring bread, festive bread, homemade bread, easy bread recipe