Italian Easter Dove, or Colomba di Pasqua, is a traditional Italian sweet bread shaped like a dove, symbolizing peace and resurrection. It’s typically enjoyed during Easter celebrations. Here’s a recipe to make your own Colomba di Pasqua at home!
Italian Easter Dove (Colomba di Pasqua) Recipe
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup whole milk, warmed
- 3 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Zest of 1 orange
For the Topping:
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 egg white (for brushing)
- Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)
For the Filling (optional):
- 1/2 cup candied orange peel or lemon peel, chopped
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips or raisins (optional)
Instructions
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Prepare the Dough:
- In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Make a well in the center and add the eggs, softened butter, vanilla extract, almond extract, lemon zest, orange zest, and the yeast mixture.
- Mix until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. If using a stand mixer, use the dough hook attachment and knead for about 5-7 minutes.
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First Rise:
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
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Add Fillings:
- Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down and knead in the candied peel and chocolate chips or raisins (if using).
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Shape the Dough:
- Divide the dough into two equal parts. Shape each part into a dove shape (or use a dove-shaped mold if you have one). If you don’t have a mold, you can shape it into a round loaf and place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- If using a dove mold, fill the mold with the shaped dough and let it rise again for about 30-45 minutes, or until it has risen to the top of the mold.
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Prepare the Topping:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a small bowl, mix the sliced almonds and granulated sugar. Brush the top of the risen dough with the egg white and sprinkle the almond mixture evenly over the top.
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Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top browns too quickly, you can cover it with aluminum foil.
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Cool:
- Once baked, remove the Colomba from the oven and let it cool in the mold for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully remove it from the mold and let it cool completely on a wire rack.
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Serve:
- Dust with powdered sugar before serving, if desired. Slice and enjoy your homemade Italian Easter Dove with family and friends!
Tips:
- Storage: Colomba di Pasqua can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. It can also be frozen for longer storage.
- Flavor Variations: Feel free to experiment with different fillings, such as dried fruits or nuts, to suit your taste.
- Mold: If you don’t have a dove mold, you can shape the dough into a round loaf or use a regular loaf pan.
Enjoy your Italian Easter Dove! It’s a beautiful and delicious way to celebrate Easter with loved ones.