Braided Egg Loaf

Elevate your bread-baking game with this stunning Braided Egg Loaf, a soft, golden bread with a rich, buttery flavor and a show-stopping presentation. This recipe combines pantry staples like all-purpose flour, sugar, and yeast with the luxurious addition of eggs and milk to create a tender, slightly sweet loaf perfect for any occasion. The dough is carefully braided for a beautiful artisanal look, and a glossy egg wash gives the crust its signature golden sheen. Optional toppings like poppy or sesame seeds add a delightful crunch and a burst of flavor. Whether served warm with butter, paired with soups, or used for sandwiches, this versatile bread is as delicious as it is visually impressive. Perfect for beginner bakers and seasoned pros alike, this recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to master homemade bread.

Nutriscore Rating: 68/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:45 mins

Servings: 8

Ingredients

• 4 cups All-purpose flour
• 0.25 cups Granulated sugar
• 2.25 teaspoons Active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoons Salt
• 1 cups Whole milk
• 4 tablespoons Unsalted butter
• 3 pieces Large eggs
• 1 piece Egg yolk
• 1 tablespoon Water
• 1 tablespoon Poppy seeds or sesame seeds (optional)

Directions

Step 1

In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of flour, sugar, yeast, and salt.

Step 2

In a small saucepan, heat the milk and butter over low heat until the butter melts. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool to lukewarm (about 110°F).

Step 3

Whisk 2 eggs into the cooled milk and butter mixture.

Step 4

Gradually add the liquid ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing with a wooden spoon until well combined.

Step 5

Add the remaining 2 cups of flour, 1/2 cup at a time, until a soft dough forms.

Step 6

Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Step 7

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

Step 8

Once risen, punch down the dough and divide it into 3 equal portions.

Step 9

Roll each portion into a long rope, about 16–18 inches in length.

Step 10

Pinch the ends of the 3 ropes together at one end and braid them tightly. Pinch the other end to secure the braid.

Step 11

Place the braided loaf on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover lightly with the kitchen towel, and let it rise again for 30–40 minutes until puffy.

Step 12

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 13

Whisk the egg yolk with 1 tablespoon of water to create an egg wash and brush it over the entire surface of the loaf.

Step 14

If desired, sprinkle poppy seeds or sesame seeds on top.

Step 15

Bake for 22–25 minutes, or until the loaf is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Step 16

Cool on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	877.4 grams (877.4g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2614

Total Fat 68.80g	88%
Saturated Fat 35.30g	177%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.30g
Cholesterol 338mg	113%
Sodium 123mg	5%
Total Carbohydrate 433.30g	158%
Dietary Fiber 16.00g	57%
Total Sugars 63.60g
Protein 64.90g	130%

Vitamin D 126IU	628%
Calcium 521mg	40%
Iron 25mg	138%
Potassium 1112mg	24%

*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: 23.7%

Protein: 9.9%

Carbs: 66.4%