Baking Tradition – Babka & Bunny Bread Rolls

Theme: Celebrate the art of baking with traditional Easter breads.

At HomeandFashion.love Easter is not just a celebration—it’s a time to honor traditions, embrace creativity, and gather with loved ones around the table. Today, we delve into the heartwarming world of Easter baking with two cherished recipes: Babka, a rich and braided bread steeped in Eastern European heritage, and String-Tied Bunny Bread Rolls, a whimsical addition to your Easter table. These breads are more than just food—they’re symbols of warmth, family, and the joy of creation.

Recipe 1: Babka / Paska Bread / A Slice of Tradition

What is Babka?

Babka originated in Eastern Europe as a way to use leftover challah dough. Over time, it evolved into a beloved sweet bread swirled with chocolate or cinnamon. Its braided shape and buttery texture make it both visually stunning and irresistibly delicious—a perfect centerpiece for your Easter celebration.

Ingredients

• 4 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 packet (2¼ tsp) active dry yeast

• ½ cup warm milk (110°F)

• ½ cup granulated sugar

• ½ tsp salt

• 3 large eggs + 1 egg yolk (reserve egg white for brushing)

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened

• 1 cup chocolate spread or cinnamon sugar mixture (for filling)

Instructions

1. Activate Yeast: Dissolve yeast in warm milk with 1 teaspoon of sugar. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.

2. Make Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Add yeast mixture, eggs, and butter. Knead until smooth and elastic (about 8–10 minutes). Cover and let rise for 1–2 hours until doubled in size.

3. Shape Babka: Roll dough into a rectangle. Spread filling evenly over the surface. Roll tightly into a log, then slice lengthwise down the center to expose layers. Twist the two halves together and place in a greased loaf pan.

4. Second Rise: Cover and let rise again for about an hour. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

5. Bake: Brush with egg white and bake for 30–35 minutes until golden brown. Cool before slicing.

Recipe 2: String-Tied Bunny Bread Rolls

Why Bunny Rolls?

These adorable rolls bring whimsy to your Easter table while being soft, buttery, and perfect for pairing with any meal. Shaped like bunnies using simple twine ties, they’re as fun to make as they are to eat!

Ingredients

• 3 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 packet (2¼ tsp) active dry yeast

• ¾ cup warm milk (110°F)

• ¼ cup granulated sugar

• 1 tsp salt

• 1 large egg + 1 egg yolk (reserve egg white for brushing)

• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened

Instructions

1. Prepare Dough: Dissolve yeast in warm milk with a pinch of sugar; let sit until frothy. Mix flour, sugar, and salt in a bowl. Add yeast mixture, egg, and butter; knead until smooth (5–7 minutes). Cover and let rise for an hour or until doubled in size.

2. Shape Bunnies: Divide dough into small balls (about golf ball size). Roll half into ropes for bunny ears; form loops by crossing ends over each other. Use remaining dough balls for bunny heads and tails. Assemble on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

3. Proof & Bake: Let shaped bunnies rise again for 20–30 minutes. Brush with egg white and bake at 350°F for 15–20 minutes until golden brown.

Decor Tip: Pastel Elegance Meets Artisanal Charm

Enhance your Easter table with subtle pastel hues that echo spring’s gentle beauty:

• Layer soft lavender or blush linens with artisanal napkins featuring delicate embroidery or floral patterns.

• Add whimsical touches like ceramic bunnies or hand-painted eggs nestled among fresh flowers like tulips or daffodils.

For an extra touch of charm, place each Bunny Bread Roll on its own pastel plate tied with twine or raffia—perfect as edible decor!

Focus: Embracing Warmth & Tradition

Baking is more than just creating food—it’s about connecting with loved ones through shared traditions and the joy of crafting something meaningful together. Whether you’re braiding Babka or shaping Bunny Bread Rolls with little helpers by your side, these recipes invite you to celebrate Easter with intention and artistry.

A Note from HomeandFashion.love

Check our our blog about The Garden Awakens—tips on cultivating spring blooms to bring the beauty of nature indoors just in time for Easter.

Let today’s baking fill your home with warmth, delicious aromas, and memories that will last long after the last crumb is gone.

— HomeandFashion.love