Experience the joy of Easter with a delightful twist on a classic Italian tradition! Our Gluten Free Colomba Pasquale Easter Dove Bread is not only a stunning centerpiece for your holiday table but also a deliciously light and fluffy treat that everyone can enjoy. Imagine biting into a slice of this sweet, aromatic bread, studded with candied orange peel and crunchy almonds, all while knowing it’s gluten-free! Whether you’re celebrating with family or simply indulging in a personal treat, this recipe will have your taste buds singing. Ready to impress your guests and make this Easter unforgettable? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 1 loaf
Ingredients
- 2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour
- 1 cup almond flour
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup warm water
- 3 large eggs
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup candied orange peel
- 1/4 cup slivered almonds
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients and ensuring your workspace is clean and organized.
- In a small bowl, combine the warm water and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy, indicating that the yeast is activated.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the gluten-free all-purpose flour, almond flour, sugar, and salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together until well blended.
- In another bowl, beat the three large eggs. Once beaten, add the olive oil and vanilla extract to the eggs, mixing until combined.
- Pour the yeast mixture and the egg mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir with a wooden spoon or a spatula until a sticky dough forms. The dough will be thicker than traditional bread dough but should be cohesive.
- Fold in the candied orange peel and slivered almonds, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and place it in a warm, draft-free area. Allow the dough to rise for about 30 minutes, or until it has roughly doubled in size.
- After the dough has risen, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a dove-shaped mold or a standard loaf pan by greasing it lightly with olive oil or lining it with parchment paper.
- Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release any air bubbles. Transfer the dough to the prepared mold, shaping it to fit if necessary. Smooth the top with a spatula.
- Cover the dough again and let it rise for another 15-20 minutes while the oven is preheating.
- Before baking, you may choose to sprinkle additional slivered almonds on top of the dough for decoration.
- Place the mold in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Once baked, remove the colomba from the oven and let it cool in the mold for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, slice and serve your gluten-free Colomba Pasquale with your favorite beverages or as a delightful dessert during the Easter celebrations.
Tips
- Ingredient Quality Matters: Use high-quality gluten-free flour and fresh ingredients to ensure the best flavor and texture in your bread.
- Activate Your Yeast: Make sure your warm water is not too hot, as this can kill the yeast. The ideal temperature is around 110°F (43°C).
- Rising Time is Key: Give your dough ample time to rise in a warm, draft-free area. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect fluffy texture.
- Shape with Care: When transferring the dough to the mold, be gentle to avoid deflating it. A light touch will help maintain the airiness of the dough.
- Decorate for Presentation: For an extra touch, sprinkle additional slivered almonds on top before baking. It adds a lovely crunch and makes your bread visually appealing.
- Cool Completely: Allow the Colomba to cool completely on a wire rack before slicing. This helps set the texture and makes for cleaner cuts.
- Serve with Style: Pair your Gluten Free Colomba Pasquale with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful treat, or serve it as a sweet dessert at your Easter gathering.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 28g
Protein: 9g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 70mg
