Ingredients
– 4 cups flour
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1/4 cup butter
– 2 eggs
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Egg wash (1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon water)
– Optional: cinnamon sugar for sprinkling
Instructions
1. In a mixer bowl, mix together the flour, sugar, salt, and yeast.
2. In a separate bowl, combine the warm milk, softened butter, eggs, and vanilla extract.
3. Add the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring until a dough forms.
4. Use a dough hook attachment and turn the mixer to medium speed for about 5 minutes.
5. Knead the dough by hand on a floured surface until smooth and elastic.
6. Grease a bowl with cooking spray or butter and place the dough inside. Cover with a kitchen towel and let it rest for 1-2 hours, until it has doubled in size.
7. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
8. Once the dough has doubled in size, transfer it to a floured surface and divide it into three equal portions.
9. Roll each portion into a long rope about an inch thick.
10. Place the three ropes side by side and pinch the top of the ropes together.
11. Braid the three ropes together and pinch the bottom of the ropes together.
12. Gently lift the braided loaf onto the parchment-lined baking sheet.
13. Allow the sweet bread braid to rest for another 10-15 minutes, brush it with an egg wash and sprinkle cinnamon sugar on top if desired.
14. Place the sweet bread braid in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, until golden brown.
15. Remove the sweet bread braid from the oven and let it cool before slicing and serving.
Tips:
– Be careful not to over flour the surface when rolling out the ropes, as too much flour may make it difficult to braid the braids together.
– If you want to experiment with different flavors, you can add raisins, chopped nuts, or chocolate chips to the dough.
– To store the sweet bread braid, wrap it tightly with cling wrap and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. It can also be frozen for up to 2 months.
– Experiment with different glazes to give your sweet bread braid an extra special touch.
In conclusion, making sweet bread braids is an easy and delicious way to impress your family and guests. This recipe is perfect for beginners and can be customized to your liking. Follow the steps outlined above and experience the joy of homemade sweet bread braids.