Sweet Braided Loaf
A soft and lightly sweet braided bread with a fluffy interior and golden crust, perfect for breakfast or a comforting homemade treat.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 50 minutes
- Yield: 10 slices
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: European
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 500 g all-purpose flour
- 75 g granulated sugar
- 7 g active dry yeast
- 250 ml warm milk
- 80 g unsalted butter, softened
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 tablespoon milk
- Pearl sugar or sliced almonds (optional)
Instructions
- In a small bowl, mix warm milk, a teaspoon of sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
- In a large bowl, combine flour, remaining sugar, and salt. Add butter, egg, vanilla, and yeast mixture, then mix into a soft dough.
- Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1–1.5 hours until doubled.
- Punch down dough and divide into 3 equal parts. Roll into ropes and braid them, sealing the ends.
- Place on a lined baking sheet, cover, and let rise again for 30–45 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 180°C. Mix egg yolk and milk, brush over loaf, and add toppings if desired.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden brown. Cool slightly before slicing.
Notes
- Ensure yeast is active for proper rising.
- Can add dried fruits or chocolate chips for variation.
- Use plant-based milk and butter for dairy-free version.
- Egg wash gives a shiny crust.
- Store in airtight container to keep soft.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
Find it online: https://savorymomskitchen.com/sweet-braided-loaf/
