Preparing this bread is not as difficult as it may seem. You can easily create a loaf at home, using some simple ingredients and following a few easy steps. Here is a recipe that you can use to make your own sweet Easter bread braid.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
– 1/2 cup warm milk
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 4 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1 cup raisins (or any other dried fruits such as cranberries or chopped apricots)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of flour with the yeast and sugar. Mix well.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter, warm milk, warm water, eggs, vanilla, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and raisins until well combined.
3. Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the flour mixture and beat well with a wooden spoon until the ingredients are fully incorporated.
4. Gradually add the remaining flour, one cup at a time, until the dough becomes pliable and can be pulled away from the sides of the bowl.
5. On a floured surface, knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
6. Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover it with plastic wrap or a clean dish towel. Let it rest in a warm place for about an hour or until the dough has doubled in size.
7. After the dough has risen, punch it down, and divide it into three equal pieces.
8. Roll each piece into a long, thin rope, about 16-18 inches long.
9. Pinch the three ends of the ropes together and braid them together, then tuck the ends under to create a neat appearance.
10. Place the braided bread on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
11. Preheat your oven to 375°F. Brush the top of the bread dough with an egg wash (whisked egg and a tablespoon of milk), and sprinkle with sugar.
12. Place the bread in the oven, and bake for approximately 25-30 minutes until it is golden brown.
13. Remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.
In conclusion, this sweet Easter bread braid is a delicious and beautiful addition to any holiday meal. By following these simple instructions, you can easily create your own stunning braided bread to proudly serve to your family and friends. Happy Easter, and happy baking!