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Braided Egg Bread

This is one of the first things I learned how to bake from my Mom
Prep Time2 hours 30 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Total Time3 hours
Course: Appetizer
Servings: 4 loaves

Ingredients

  • 6 3/4 cups flour all purpose
  • 2 packages yeast
  • 2 cups milk
  • 4 tbsp butter
  • 1/4 cup sugar or honey
  • 1 tbsp salt
  • 3 eggs
  • 1 egg yolk

Instructions

  • In a large mixing bowl, mix 3 cups of flour and the two packages of yeast.
  • In a saucepan, heat the milk, butter, sugar, and salt until the butter and sugar are melted. Cool slightly (to under 110 degrees F) then pour mixture into the mixing bowl with the flour and yeast.
  • Stir in 3 eggs and mix on low speed for 30 seconds, then switch to medium speed and mix for 3 more minutes.
  • Add remaining flour, stir to mix, and turn-out onto a floured surface. Knead until smooth, about 3 minutes.
  • Put dough into a large, greased bowl, turn and cover. Let rise for 1 hour.
  • Put dough back on floured surface and punch down. Divide dough into 4 equal parts.
  • Working with one part at a time, divide it into 3 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a "snake" about 12 to 15 inches long.
  • Braid 3 snakes together, pinching the tops and bottoms to secure each loaf.
  • Repeat with each part, ending up with 4 braided loaves.
  • Glaze each loaf with a mixture of egg yolk and water. Sprinkle with poppy or sesame seeds.
  • Place loaves on greased cookie sheets, cover, and let rise for 1 more hour.
  • Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.
  • Bake for 18-23 minutes, until lightly browned.
  • Let cool on racks, and enjoy!