As Easter approaches, what better way to celebrate than with these adorable and delicious Easter bread bunnies, also known as bunny buns?
These soft, fluffy buns are fun to make, easy to decorate, and perfect for sharing with friends and family. The combination of freshly baked bread, colorful eggs, and sweet decorations makes these bunny buns an Easter treat that everyone will love.
Why This Recipe Works
- Fun to Make: Shaping the dough into little bunny figures is a fun and interactive activity, especially for kids.
- Perfect for Easter: These bunny buns are themed for Easter, featuring colorful dyed eggs and sweet decorations.
- Delicious: Soft and slightly sweet, these buns pair perfectly with a variety of spreads or just on their own.
- Customizable: You can adjust the level of sweetness, egg decorations, and fillings based on your preferences.
What You Will Need
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 to 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour (added gradually)
- 1/4 cup white sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 ounce (7g) package active dry yeast (about 2 1/4 tsp)
- 2/3 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 9 eggs (see instructions for dividing the eggs):
- 2 eggs for the dough
- 6 eggs for baking (dyed if desired)
- 1 egg beaten (for “glue” and brushing)
Equipment Needed
- Microwave or small saucepan
- Large mixing bowl
- Baking sheet (greased or lined with parchment/silicone mat)
- Damp cloth or towel
- Spoon or chopstick (for making eye holes)
- Brush (for egg wash)
How to Make Easter Bread Bunnies
Step 1. Warm the Milk and Butter
In a small container, microwave the milk and butter until the milk is very warm and the butter begins to melt. Set aside.
Step 2. Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, stir together the yeast, sugar, salt, and 1 cup of flour. This is the base for our dough.
Step 3. Add Wet Ingredients
Add the warm milk and butter mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring until smooth. Next, add two eggs and mix well.
Step 4. Add Remaining Flour
Gradually add the remaining flour, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring after each addition. Continue until the dough starts to clump and “chases” the spoon around the bowl. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface.
Step 5. Knead the Dough
Knead the dough for about 8 minutes until smooth and elastic. If necessary, add small amounts of flour to prevent it from sticking to your hands or the counter.
Step 6. Let the Dough Rise
Grease a large bowl with a bit of oil. Place the dough in the bowl and turn to coat. Cover with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm place (such as an oven with the light on) for 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
Step 7. Punch Down the Dough
Once the dough has doubled in size, punch it down to release the air. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface.
Step 8. Shape the Bunnies
Roll the dough into a 14″ rope and cut it into 6 pieces. For each piece:
- Roll it into a 10″ rope.
- Cut off 3″ for the bunny head and ears.
- Cut off a 1/2″ piece for the bunny tail.
- Roll the remaining 6 1/2″ piece into an 8″ long piece and shape it into a circle. Use the beaten egg to “glue” the ends together.
- Attach the 3″ piece as the head and ears, and the 1/2″ piece as the tail. Use the beaten egg to attach them.
Step 9. Let the Bunnies Rise
Place the shaped bunnies at least 4 inches apart on the greased baking sheet. Cover with a damp towel and let them rise for about 1 hour, until almost doubled in size.
Step 10. Add the Eye and Bake
Using the end of a spoon or chopstick, poke a small hole where the eye should be. Brush each bunny with the beaten egg and gently insert a dyed raw egg into the center of each bunny’s body. Bake at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Note: Be sure the egg sits on top of the bunny and is only slightly pushed in to ensure it cooks fully. The eggs inside the bunnies should be fully cooked.
Step 11. Add Decorations
Once baked, let the bunny buns cool slightly. Use honey to attach a jelly bean to the eye hole and coconut to the tail for a fun finishing touch. These can be served warm or cold.
Note: Due to the eggs, these buns must be refrigerated if not eaten right away.
Tips and Tricks
- Perfect Dough Texture: When kneading the dough, be sure to add just enough flour to prevent it from sticking. The dough should be smooth, soft, and elastic.
- Customize the Decorations: While we use dyed eggs, you can skip the dyeing step or use different colored jelly beans for the eyes.
- Storing Leftovers: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Warm them up in the microwave for a quick and delicious treat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use store-bought bread dough for this recipe?
While it’s possible to use store-bought dough for convenience, homemade dough gives these bunny buns the perfect flavor and texture. We recommend making it from scratch for the best results.
How do I store Easter bunny buns?
If you’re not planning to eat them immediately, store your bunny buns in the fridge due to the eggs inside. They should stay fresh for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze Easter bunny buns?
Yes, you can freeze these buns. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil, and they’ll keep in the freezer for up to 1 month. Reheat in the oven when ready to enjoy.
How do I dye the eggs?
To dye the eggs, simply submerge raw eggs in a mixture of food coloring and water. Let them sit for 5-10 minutes or until the desired color is achieved. Allow them to dry completely before baking.
Hop Into Easter with Adorable and Delicious Bunny Buns!
Celebrate Easter with these adorable and delicious Easter bread bunnies, perfect for family and friends!
Ingredients
2 1/2 to 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup white sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 ounce (7g) package active dry yeast
2/3 cup milk
2 tablespoons butter
9 eggs (2 for dough, 6 raw for decoration, 1 for egg wash)
Directions
- Microwave the milk and butter until warm and melted.
- In a bowl, combine yeast, sugar, salt, and 1 cup flour.
- Stir in milk mixture and 2 eggs, then gradually add the rest of the flour until dough forms.
- Knead on a floured surface for 8 minutes until smooth.
- Grease a bowl, add dough, cover, and let rise for 1-2 hours until doubled.
- Punch down dough, divide into 6 pieces, shape into bunnies.
- Place shaped buns on a greased sheet and let rise for 1 hour.
- Preheat oven to 350°F, brush buns with egg wash, and insert raw eggs into the center. Bake for 20-25 minutes.
- Attach a jelly bean for the eye and coconut for the tail using honey. Serve warm or cold.
