Hey there! Ready to add some Easter charm to your kitchen?
Today, I’m sharing a beloved recipe: Colomba Pasquale, or Easter Doves. Imagine golden-brown dove-shaped dough, adorned with crunchy almonds and sugar crystals. Yummy, right?
Let’s bake it together!
Easter Doves - Homemade Colomba Pasquale
Course: DessertCuisine: ItalianDifficulty: Medium20
slices2
hours30
minutes1
hour425
kcalColomba Pasquale, also known as Easter Dove, is a traditional Italian sweet bread enjoyed during the Easter season. This delightful treat is made with flour, eggs, butter, sugar, almonds, candied orange peel, and yeast.
It is shaped like a dove, symbolizing peace and resurrection.
Colomba Pasquale is often dusted with sugar crystals and adorned with almonds, giving it a beautiful and festive appearance. Its soft, fluffy texture and delicious flavors make it perfect for sharing with family and friends during Easter celebrations.
Ingredients
1 pound of flour
1 cup of milk
2 tablespoons of yeast
4 large eggs plus 2 additional egg yolks
2/3 cup of sugar
1/3 cup of sugar crystals
2/3 cup of unsalted butter, with a little extra for greasing
1/2 cup of blanched almonds
1/2 cup of candied orange peel
A pinch of salt
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F.
- Dissolve yeast in warm milk (1/2 cup).
- Mix half of the flour with the milk and yeast to form a dough, then let it rise until it doubles in size.
- Incorporate eggs, one yolk, remaining flour, sugar, butter, salt, orange peel, and the rest of the milk into the risen dough.
- Grease an oven rack and shape the dough into a dove. You can also put the dough into your Colomba form.
- Brush the dough with the remaining egg yolk and sprinkle with almonds and sugar crystals.
- Let the dough rise until it is doubled in size.
- Bake for approximately 1 hour. Enjoy your Easter Doves!
Notes
- Dough Rising: Ensure proper rising of the dough by allowing it to double in size before adding additional ingredients. This step is crucial for achieving the desired texture and lightness in the Colomba Pasquale.
- Shaping: When shaping the dough into a dove, focus on the details to create a visually appealing final product. Brush the surface with egg yolk and decorate with almonds and sugar crystals for an attractive finish.
- Baking Time: Monitor the baking time closely to prevent over-browning. Adjust the oven temperature or cover the Colomba Pasquale with foil if necessary to achieve an evenly golden crust while ensuring the interior is fully cooked.
- Yeast Activation: Dissolve the yeast in warm milk thoroughly to activate it effectively. This ensures proper leavening and contributes to the dough's rise and overall structure.
- Storage: Store any leftover Colomba Pasquale in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in foil to maintain its freshness and prevent it from drying out. Enjoy within a few days for the best taste and texture.
Recipe FAQ
1. How long will the Easter Doves stay fresh?
The freshly baked Colomba Pasquale will stay fresh for 3-4 days if stored in an airtight container at room temperature.
2. Can I make mini versions of Easter Doves?
Yes, you can divide the dough into smaller portions to make mini Easter Doves. Adjust the baking time accordingly.
3. Can I freeze the baked Colomba Pasquale?
Yes, you can freeze the baked Easter Doves. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container in the freezer for up to a month.
4. Can I use a different type of nut instead of almonds?
Yes, you can use other nuts if you prefer or if you have allergies to almonds.
5. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it overnight. Allow it to come to room temperature before shaping and baking.
6. Can I use a stand mixer to knead the dough?
Yes, you can use a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook attachment to knead the dough instead of doing it by hand.
7. How do I prevent the dough from sticking to my hands when shaping?
Lightly flouring your hands can help prevent the dough from sticking while shaping. Additionally, keeping the work surface floured can make the process easier.
8. Can I add additional toppings or decorations to the Easter Doves?
Yes, you can customize the toppings and decorations according to your preference. Some traditional options include pearl sugar, almonds, or icing glaze.
