How to Make Colomba Pasquale: A Step-by-Step Guide to Baking the Italian Easter Bread

Colomba Pasquale, with its beautiful dove shape and delicate orange blossom aroma, is more than just bread—it’s a symbol of peace and rebirth enjoyed throughout Italy during Easter. This traditional treat might seem daunting to bake, but don’t worry! With our easy-to-follow guide, you’ll learn How To Make Colomba Pasquale in your own kitchen and impress your loved ones with this delicious Easter tradition.

Imagine slicing into the soft, airy crumb, the citrusy fragrance filling your kitchen, and the satisfaction of presenting this stunning centerpiece at your Easter gathering. Are you ready to bring a taste of Italy to your table? Let’s get started!

Gathering Your Ingredients:

Before we begin our baking journey, let’s collect everything we need. The beauty of Colomba Pasquale lies not only in its taste but also in the quality of ingredients.

For the Dough:

• 500g strong bread flour (and a little extra for dusting)
• 200ml warm milk
• 2 tsp active dry yeast
• 100g granulated sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Zest of 1 orange
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 3 large eggs (at room temperature)
• 150g unsalted butter (softened, cubed)
• 1 tsp salt

For the Candied Fruit Mixture:

• 100g mixed candied peel
• 50g raisins
• 2 tbsp rum or orange juice (for soaking the fruit)

For the Almond Glaze:

• 50g almond flour
• 50g powdered sugar
• 1 egg white
• 1 tbsp sliced almonds

Colomba Pasquale Dough Ingredients

Tools of the Trade:

Having the right tools will make the process smoother and more enjoyable:

• A stand mixer (highly recommended) or a large mixing bowl
• Colomba Pasquale mold (or a similar dove-shaped mold)
• Plastic wrap
• Pastry brush
• Small saucepan
• Parchment paper

Crafting the Perfect Colomba Pasquale:

Now that we’re prepped and ready, let’s dive into the step-by-step process:

Step 1: Awakening the Yeast

In a small bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and 1 teaspoon of sugar. Let it sit for about 10 minutes, until the yeast is foamy. This is how you know the yeast is alive and ready to work its magic!

Step 2: Creating the Dough

1. In the bowl of your stand mixer (or a large mixing bowl), whisk together flour, remaining sugar, orange zest, lemon zest, and salt.
2. Add the yeast mixture and vanilla extract to the flour mixture.
3. Using the dough hook attachment, knead on low speed for about 8-10 minutes. If kneading by hand, knead for 12-15 minutes. The dough should be smooth and elastic.
4. Gradually add the softened butter, one cube at a time, ensuring each cube is incorporated before adding the next.
5. Once all the butter is added, continue kneading for 5-7 minutes until the dough is very smooth and pulls away from the sides of the bowl.

Step 3: The First Rise

1. Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl, turning to coat.
2. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.

Step 4: The Candied Fruit Infusion

While the dough is rising, combine the mixed candied peel and raisins in a small bowl. Pour rum or orange juice over the fruit and let it soak for at least 30 minutes. This will plump up the fruit and make it extra flavorful.

Step 5: Shaping the Colomba

1. Gently punch down the risen dough to release any air bubbles.
2. Flatten the dough slightly and sprinkle the drained candied fruit mixture evenly over the surface.
3. Knead the dough for a minute or two to incorporate the fruit.
4. Divide the dough into two portions, one slightly larger than the other.
5. Shape the larger portion into the body of the dove and place it in the greased Colomba mold.
6. Shape the smaller portion into the wings and head of the dove and arrange them on the body.

Step 6: The Second Rise

Cover the mold loosely with plastic wrap and let the dough rise again in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours, or until almost doubled in size.

Colomba Pasquale Dough in Dove Mold

Step 7: The Almond Glaze

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the almond flour, powdered sugar, and egg white until a smooth paste forms.

Step 8: Baking the Colomba

1. Gently brush the top of the risen Colomba dough with the almond glaze.
2. Sprinkle the sliced almonds over the glaze.
3. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until golden brown. To check for doneness, insert a wooden skewer into the center of the bread. If it comes out clean, it’s ready.
4. If the top starts to brown too quickly, cover the Colomba loosely with a piece of parchment paper.

Step 9: Cooling and Serving

Once baked, remove the Colomba from the oven and let it cool completely in the mold before inverting it onto a wire rack.

Tips and Tricks:

• Yeast activity: The time it takes for the dough to rise may vary depending on the temperature of your kitchen. Be patient and allow the dough to rise fully for the best results.
• Candied fruit alternatives: Feel free to customize your Colomba by using different types of candied fruit or even chocolate chips.
• Almond glaze consistency: If the almond glaze is too thick, add a few drops of water to thin it out.
• Storage: Store your Colomba Pasquale at room temperature, wrapped in plastic wrap, for up to 3 days.

FAQs

Q: Can I make Colomba Pasquale without a dove-shaped mold?

A: Absolutely! While a traditional mold adds to the charm, you can use a 10-inch Bundt pan or a similar-sized baking dish. Just adjust the baking time accordingly.

Q: My Colomba is a bit dry. What went wrong?

A: Several factors could cause dryness, like overbaking or not enough moisture in the dough. Make sure to check for doneness with a skewer and consider adding a tablespoon or two of milk to the dough if you’re in a dry climate.

Q: Can I freeze Colomba Pasquale?

A: Yes, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Slice it first for easier thawing and reheat individual slices in a low oven.

A Taste of Tradition

Making Colomba Pasquale is a labor of love, but the reward is well worth the effort. The intoxicating aroma filling your kitchen, the soft crumb, and the satisfaction of sharing this Italian Easter tradition will make it an unforgettable baking experience.

Family Enjoying Colomba Pasquale

We hope this guide inspires you to bake your own Colomba Pasquale this Easter. Don’t forget to share your baking journey and tag us on social media! Happy baking!