Ingredients
Dough Ingredients:
- 4 cups (500g) all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup (65g) granulated sugar
- 2 1/4 teaspoons (7g) active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup (120ml) warm milk (110°F/43°C)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon salt
Egg Wash (for a Golden Finish):
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 tablespoon milk
Optional Toppings:
- Sesame or poppy seeds
- Coarse sugar
Instructions
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
- In a small bowl, mix warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
Step 2: Make the Dough
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Add eggs, softened butter, and yeast mixture. Mix until the dough starts coming together.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic (or 5–6 minutes in a stand mixer with a dough hook).
Step 4: First Rise
4. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours until doubled in size.
Step 5: Shape & Braid the Dough
5. Punch down the dough and divide it into three equal pieces. Roll each into a 16-inch rope, then braid them together, pinching the ends.
Step 6: Second Rise
6. Transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover, and let rise for another 30–40 minutes.
Step 7: Bake
7. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush the loaf with egg wash and bake for 25–30 minutes until golden brown. Cool before slicing.
Notes
- For Extra Flavor: Add cinnamon sugar, chocolate chips, or dried fruit.
- Storage: Keep in an airtight container at room temp for 3 days or freeze slices for up to 2 months.
- Make Ahead: Prepare dough in advance and refrigerate overnight.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: European
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: ~180
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 35mg