A Unique and Delicious Braided Bread

Elevate your baking repertoire with this stunning and delicious Braided Bread—a showstopping blend of artistry and flavor perfect for any occasion. Made with simple pantry staples like all-purpose flour, lukewarm milk, and melted butter, this soft and fluffy bread boasts a golden, glossy finish thanks to an egg wash and optional sesame seed topping. The dough is expertly kneaded for a smooth texture, braided into an elegant plait, and baked to perfection, resulting in a loaf that's as beautiful as it is delicious. Whether you serve it as a centerpiece at brunch, accompany it with soups, or enjoy it as a snack, this braided bread is irresistibly tender and buttery. With minimal prep time and a payoff that’ll impress family and guests alike, this recipe is perfect for home bakers looking to try their hand at artisanal breadmaking.

Nutriscore Rating: 76/100

Prep Time:30 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:55 mins

Servings: 8

Ingredients

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2.25 teaspoons instant yeast
• 1 cup lukewarm milk
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 2 pieces large eggs
• 1 piece egg yolk, for egg wash
• 2 teaspoons water, for egg wash
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)

Directions

Step 1

In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, sugar, salt, and instant yeast.

Step 2

Gradually add the lukewarm milk, melted butter, and eggs into the mixing bowl. Mix until a soft dough starts to form.

Step 3

Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic.

Step 4

Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a damp towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.

Step 5

Once risen, punch down the dough and divide it into three equal portions.

Step 6

Roll each portion into a long rope, about 16 inches in length. Pinch the three ends together at the top and braid the ropes tightly, pinching the ends together at the bottom to secure the braid.

Step 7

Transfer the braided dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover it loosely with cling film and let it proof for 30-40 minutes until puffy.

Step 8

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolk and water to create an egg wash.

Step 9

Brush the egg wash evenly over the surface of the braided dough. If desired, sprinkle sesame seeds on top for added texture and flavor.

Step 10

Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the loaf is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Step 11

Remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool completely on a wire rack before slicing and serving.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	804.5 grams (804.5g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2140

Total Fat 19.00g	24%
Saturated Fat 6.00g	30%
Polyunsaturated Fat NaNg
Cholesterol 204mg	68%
Sodium 134mg	6%
Total Carbohydrate 421.50g	153%
Dietary Fiber 16.10g	58%
Total Sugars 50.70g
Protein 64.90g	130%

Vitamin D 142IU	710%
Calcium 466mg	36%
Iron 24mg	136%
Potassium 1011mg	22%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 8.1%

Protein: 12.3%

Carbs: 79.7%