Gluten Free Easter Bread Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves

There’s something so heartwarming about Easter bread—its soft, tender crumb and the subtle sweetness that makes every bite a celebration. But if you’re gluten-free, finding a recipe that delivers on texture and flavor can sometimes feel like a challenge.

That’s why this gluten free Easter bread recipe is here to change your festive baking game! With a blend of wholesome gluten-free flours and natural ingredients, this bread is perfectly moist and fluffy, with a golden crust that’s just begging to be sliced and shared.

Whether you’re new to gluten-free baking or a seasoned pro, this recipe is straightforward and rewarding. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to bring tradition to your table without compromising your dietary needs.

Get ready to impress your family and friends with a loaf that tastes just as delightful as the classic version—no gluten required!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Our gluten free Easter bread is a true crowd-pleaser for many reasons. First, it strikes the perfect balance between soft and slightly chewy, mimicking traditional Easter bread’s signature texture.

The use of a blend of gluten-free flours ensures it’s light yet sturdy enough for slicing and serving with your favorite spreads.

Additionally, this bread is naturally sweetened with honey and flavored with fragrant orange zest and a hint of vanilla, giving it a fresh, springtime vibe. It’s also dairy-free and can be made vegan with simple substitutions, making it suitable for a variety of dietary preferences.

Lastly, it’s an excellent base for customization. Add nuts, dried fruits, or even a glaze—this recipe adapts easily to your taste and creativity.

It’s the perfect centerpiece for your Easter brunch or a thoughtful homemade gift!

Ingredients

• 2 ½ cups gluten-free all-purpose flour (ensure it includes xanthan gum)
• 1 cup almond flour
• 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ½ tsp salt
• ¾ cup warm milk (dairy or plant-based like almond or oat)
• 2 large eggs (or flax eggs for vegan option)
• ¼ cup honey (or maple syrup for vegan)
• 2 tbsp olive oil (or melted coconut oil)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Zest of 1 orange
• Optional: ½ cup chopped dried cranberries or raisins
• Optional: ¼ cup chopped walnuts or pecans

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk and wooden spoon or spatula
• Stand mixer with dough hook (optional but helpful)
• Loaf pan (8×4 inches)
• Kitchen towel or plastic wrap
• Cooling rack
• Small bowl for proofing yeast
• Grater or zester for orange zest

Instructions

1. Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm milk with the sugar and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy and bubbly. This indicates the yeast is active and ready.
2. Mix dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the gluten-free all-purpose flour, almond flour, and salt. If your flour blend does not contain xanthan gum, add 1 tsp here to help with the bread’s structure.
3. Combine wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, then add honey, olive oil, vanilla extract, and orange zest. Mix well to incorporate.
4. Make the dough: Pour the activated yeast mixture and wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir with a wooden spoon or use a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook on low speed. Mix until everything is well combined and forms a sticky dough. If using, fold in dried cranberries and nuts now.
5. First rise: Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Place it in a warm, draft-free area and let the dough rise for 1 to 1 ½ hours, or until it has roughly doubled in size.
6. Prepare the loaf pan: Lightly grease your loaf pan with oil or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
7. Shape and second rise: Transfer the risen dough into the prepared pan, smoothing the top gently with a spatula. Cover again and allow it to rise for another 30-45 minutes until slightly puffed.
8. Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the bread for 35-40 minutes or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
9. Cool: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a cooling rack to cool completely before slicing.

Tips & Variations

“For best results, always make sure your yeast is fresh and your liquid is warm but not hot—too hot can kill the yeast!”

If you want a vegan version, simply replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tbsp water per egg, set to gel for 5 minutes) and use maple syrup instead of honey. The bread will still rise beautifully and have a lovely texture.

Feel free to swap almond flour with coconut flour, but reduce the quantity to about ½ cup and add an extra egg or two to keep the bread moist. You can also add zest from other citrus fruits like lemon or lime for different flavor profiles.

For a festive touch, brush the top with an egg wash or plant-based milk mixed with a little sugar before baking to achieve a shiny, golden crust. Adding a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and orange juice after baking makes it truly special.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This gluten free Easter bread shines when served fresh and warm. Slice and enjoy with a smear of butter, vegan margarine, or your favorite jam.

It also pairs beautifully with cream cheese or a drizzle of honey for a sweet touch.

For a savory brunch, serve alongside scrambled eggs, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. It’s also wonderful toasted with almond butter and sliced bananas for an energizing breakfast.

If you’re planning ahead, this bread freezes well. Wrap individual slices or the whole loaf tightly in plastic wrap and store in the freezer.

Toast or warm slices before serving to enjoy that freshly baked flavor anytime.

Conclusion

Making a gluten free Easter bread doesn’t have to be intimidating or compromise on taste and texture. This recipe brings together simple, wholesome ingredients and straightforward steps to deliver a loaf that’s just as festive and delicious as the traditional version.

Its soft crumb, fragrant orange zest, and subtle sweetness make it a standout addition to any holiday table.

Whether you’re baking for yourself or sharing with loved ones, this bread is sure to become a new Easter favorite. Don’t forget to experiment with add-ins and toppings to make it uniquely yours!

And if you love baking gluten-free, explore more recipes like our 5 Ingredient Vegan Gluten Free Recipes for Easy Meals or try some savory options like the Veg Grilled Sandwich Recipes That Are Quick and Delicious.

Happy baking and joyful Easter celebrations!

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