Braided Bread
A beautiful and delicious braided bread that's perfect for any meal, featuring a crunchy crust and a soft, airy interior.
Ingredients
Bread Ingredients
- 340 g Flour (2.5 cups + 2 tbsp)
- 150 ml Slightly warm milk (0.5 cup + 2 tbsp) Ensure it's slightly warm to activate the yeast.
- 1 unit Egg
- 50 g Butter (3.5 tbsp)
- 3 g Yeast (instant/active dried yeast) Check expiration date for freshness.
- 30 g Sugar (2.5 tbsp)
- 6 g Salt (1 tsp)
- 1 unit Egg (for egg wash, lightly beaten)
Instructions
Preparation
- Combine the flour, warm milk, egg, butter, yeast, sugar, and salt in a bowl. Stir to form a shaggy mass.
- Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface until smooth and elastic, about 8-10 minutes.
- Divide the dough into three equal pieces and let rest for about 8-10 minutes.
Shaping and Braiding
- Shape each piece into elongated strips of the same length.
- Lay the strips parallel and pinch the top ends together. Braid the strips and pinch the ends to seal.
- Place the braided dough on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Let proof for 60 minutes.
Baking
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the top with egg wash and sprinkle sesame seeds if desired.
- Bake for 20-22 minutes until the crust is golden and sounds hollow when tapped.
- Allow the bread to cool on a wire rack before slicing.
Notes
For variations, consider adding herbs, cheese, or even sweet fillings like cinnamon and sugar.