Sicilian Easter Bread Recipe (cuddura cu l'ova)

Sicilian Easter Cuddura cu l'Ova is a traditional Sicilian bread nestled with eggs and presented to family and friends each Easter.

Course Bread

Cuisine Sicilian-Italian

Keyword cuddura, Sicilian Easter bread, Easter cuddura, Easter bread with eggs, traditional Sicilian Easter bread

Prep Time 40

Cook Time 1

Resting time 2

Total Time 1 40

Servings cuddura with 4 eggs each

Calories 1853kcal

Place yeast and sugar in a small bowl and add ½ cup of the lukewarm water. Let sit for 10 minutes.
In a large bowl combine 3 1/2 cups flour and salt. Make a well in the centre and pour in the yeast mixture. Add the remaining 3 cups of warm water and stir with a wooden spoon to form a dough.
Place the dough on a lightly floured surface, it will be very sticky. Gradually add the remaining flour, kneading it into the dough. Knead about 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a cloth and let rise for 2 hours until doubled in bulk.
Cover 2 baking sheets with parchment paper. Place eggs in a bowl, cover with hot tap water and let sit for 10 minutes while you shape the dough.
Punch down the dough and divide in 2.
Divide each half into 3 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a -20 inch long rope. Braid the 3 ropes and form a circle by pinching the ends together. Transfer to the prepared baking sheet.
Nestle 4 eggs at equal intervals into the dough. To form a basket, nestle 2 eggs on the bottom of the braid and slightly lengthen the top part of the braid to shape the basket’s handle. Repeat with the remaining dough.
Preheat oven to 350F. Let the cuddure rest while the oven preheats. Bake for approximately 45-60 minutes until the bread is golden on top and underneath. Let cool before slicing.

The eggs do not require boiling prior to baking. Place in a bowl covered with warm water while you are shaping the dough. They will bake in the oven.
Please note that baking time may vary according to each oven. The bread is ready when golden in color both on top and underneath. It will have a hollow sound when you tap it.
Store the bread at room temperature for up to 3 days. Remove the eggs from the bread and store separately in the refrigerator.
The bread can also be frozen (without the eggs) for up to 3 months.
For children, the bread may be shaped as a basket as shown. This one was prepared by my mother for my daughter a few years ago.