Print

Braided Easter Nest Buns

Braided Bun Easter Nests
Print Recipe
Print Recipe

Soft, fluffy, and beautifully braided, these Braided Easter Nest Buns are perfect for spring celebrations! Each golden bun forms a charming nest, ideal for holding colorful candy or chocolate eggs. Lightly sweet and festive, they make a delightful centerpiece for your Easter table.

Ingredients

Scale

  • For the Dough:

    • 3 ½ cups (440g) all-purpose flour
    • ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
    • 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
    • ¾ cup (180ml) warm milk (about 110°F/45°C)
    • ¼ cup (60g) unsalted butter, melted
    • 1 large egg
    • ½ teaspoon salt

  • For the Egg Wash:

    • 1 large egg
    • 1 tablespoon milk

  • For Decoration:

    • Colored candy eggs or chocolate eggs (for the “nests”)
    • Optional: powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions

  • Activate the Yeast:
    In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and granulated sugar. Stir in the active dry yeast and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.

  • Make the Dough:
    In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture, melted butter, and egg. Mix until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 8-10 minutes, or until smooth and elastic.

  • First Rise:
    Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

  • Shape the Buns:
    Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rope about 10 inches (25 cm) long. Take two ropes and twist them together to form a braid. Shape the braid into a circle and pinch the ends to seal, creating a nest shape.

  • Second Rise:
    Place the braided nests on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover them lightly with a towel and let them rise for another 30 minutes.

  • Preheat & Egg Wash:
    Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and milk. Brush the tops of the buns with the egg wash for a golden finish.

  • Bake:
    Bake the buns for 15-18 minutes, or until they are golden brown.

  • Decorate:
    Once cooled, place colored candy eggs or chocolate eggs in the center of each nest. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar for an extra festive touch.

Notes

Notes:

  • 🌡️ Warm Milk Tip: Ensure the milk is warm (not hot) to properly activate the yeast. Too hot can kill the yeast; too cold won’t activate it.
  • 🥖 Dough Consistency: If the dough is too sticky, add a tablespoon of flour at a time. If too dry, add a teaspoon of milk.
  • 🕰️ Make Ahead: You can prepare the dough the night before. Let it rise, shape the nests, cover, and refrigerate. Bring to room temperature before baking.
  • 🎨 Decoration Ideas: Use pastel-colored eggs, mini chocolate eggs, or fill the nests with lemon curd or jam for a unique twist.
  • 🧈 Serving Suggestion: Enjoy warm with a pat of butter, honey, or your favorite jam for an extra treat!

Nutrition

Keywords: Braided Easter Nest Buns

Find it online: https://sofyarecipes.com/braided-easter-nest-buns/