This is our easy Easter egg bread recipe with frozen dough. These mini wreaths make a charming holiday side dish and are semi-homemade using Rhodes frozen rolls or loaf. Below you’ll find a simple, step-by-step guide to recreate them at home.
If you prefer not to bake entirely from scratch, this cheat method using Rhodes frozen rolls is perfect. They thaw and shape easily, and with minimal prep you get attractive, tasty mini wreaths everyone will enjoy.
We love experimenting with frozen dough. Earlier we tried frozen rolls in the air fryer and the results were so good we kept inventing new ways to use them. We’ve also used frozen cinnamon rolls to make a chocolate monkey bread that’s unbelievable—worth trying when you have a sweet tooth. With Easter coming, we wanted a small, crowd-friendly version of the classic Italian Easter loaf.
Traditionally the Easter bread is a large wreath that’s sliced and shared. For serving a crowd or for casual snacking, mini wreaths are much easier than a loaf that requires slicing. Using frozen bread dough keeps this recipe quick and convenient while preserving the classic look.
What is the significance of Easter bread?
The round, wreath-shaped bread symbolizes the crown of thorns worn by Jesus. Dyed eggs are often set into the dough or placed on top, and some people add sprinkles or other decorations for color.
Ingredient Notes
This recipe uses 24 defrosted small frozen rolls to make 12 mini Easter wreaths. You can halve or double the quantities depending on how many you want to serve.
Do I need to thaw frozen bread dough?
Yes. Thaw the rolls on the countertop for a few hours until they are pliable and ready to be shaped. Follow the package directions for thawing if provided, or follow the instructions in this recipe for best results.
You’ll also need:
- 1 large egg plus about 1 tsp water, whisked to make an egg wash for a glossy finish
- 1 tbsp sprinkles or more to decorate
- Chocolate eggs or other small candies to place in the center of each wreath
These are a fun project to get kids involved with—my family devoured them quickly once they were ready.
Variations
For a sweet-and-salty finish brush melted butter on the wreaths after baking, then sprinkle a little granulated sugar on top. You can also leave off sprinkles for a more classic look or add flavored sugars and spices to suit your taste.
To keep things simple while echoing the traditional style, we used chocolate-covered malted balls in place of dyed hard-boiled eggs. They look festive, are easier to handle, and eliminate the need to peel eggs at the table.
How to Braid Easter Egg Bread
These mini wreaths use a simple two-strand braid instead of the traditional three-strand braid, which makes shaping quicker and easier. Roll each thawed roll into a roughly 6-inch rope. Press the top ends together and then cross the bottom over the top, alternating sides until you reach the end—this creates a neat two-strand braid. Press the ends together, form into a circle, and seal the ends to make a wreath.
Arrange the wreaths on parchment-lined baking sheets with space between them so they can expand while baking. Brush each with egg wash and add sprinkles before baking for color and shine. Once baked and cooled slightly, place a chocolate egg in the center of each wreath.
How Long to Bake Easter Egg Bread
If each wreath is made from two dinner-roll-sized pieces of dough, bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 17 minutes. Start checking at 15 minutes to prevent over-browning. You want a light golden top and a tender center.
How do you know when they are done?
The tops should be a light golden brown with a slight crisp, and the interior should be fully baked with no raw dough. Break one open if you’re unsure; the crumb should be soft and cooked through.
FAQ
Easter egg bread is a decorative holiday bread, often shaped into a wreath and finished with dyed or chocolate eggs and sprinkles. It’s typically a soft, brioche-like bread that symbolizes celebration and tradition.
Many simplify the traditional recipe by using defrosted frozen dough instead of making dough from scratch. Instead of real dyed eggs, chocolate eggs or candy can be used for an easier, kid-friendly option. You can also add butter and sugar after baking for a sweet-salty finish.
Braiding is traditional but not required. Two-strand twists or simple ropes arranged into a wreath work well and are faster to shape.
Let the wreaths cool to room temperature, then store in an airtight bag or container to prevent drying. Keep at room temperature for up to three days. Reheat briefly in the microwave (about 30 seconds) to soften if needed.
Easter Egg Bread Recipe
Equipment
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1 baking sheet
Ingredients
- 24 small frozen rolls, Rhodes frozen rolls used, thawed for about 3 hours
- 1 tsp water
- 1 tbsp sprinkles
- 1 large egg, to make egg wash
Instructions
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Lay 24 frozen dinner rolls on a piece of parchment paper or inside a lightly oiled cake pan. Cover loosely with plastic wrap that has been lightly sprayed with nonstick spray.
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Allow them to defrost and rise for about 3 hours. If any tops are slightly dry, fold the roll in half so the top is inside, then oil your hands and roll the dough into a rope approximately 6 inches long.
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Take two ropes and press the top ends together. Cross the bottom rope over the top, then alternate crossing the other rope over, continuing until you reach the ends. Press the ends together to secure.
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Form the braided piece into a wreath, joining and sealing the ends so it becomes a circle.
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Place each wreath on parchment-lined baking sheets, leaving space between them. Whisk 1 egg with 1 tsp water and brush the tops, then sprinkle with sprinkles.
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 17 minutes. Remove the parchment promptly after baking to prevent continued browning.
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When the wreaths are cooled, place a chocolate egg in the center of each and serve.
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Optional: For a richer finish, brush melted butter on top after baking and sprinkle a little granulated sugar over each wreath.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is an approximation.
Additional Info
Once you try these mini wreaths you’ll see why frozen bread dough is so versatile. They’re quick, pretty, and kid-approved. If you enjoy cooking outdoors, consider trying other bread recipes made with frozen dough for more ideas.
