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Prep Time: 30 Minutes Cook Time: 20 Minutes |
Ready In: 50 Minutes Servings: 8 |
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There's nothing like the aroma of bread baking to warm heart and home. Served fresh from the oven or given as a gift, this pretty braided loaf from our Test Kitchen can bring a holiday feeling to any wintry meal! Ingredients:
1-1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast |
1/4 cup warm water (110° to 115°) |
2 tablespoons vegetable oil |
4 teaspoons sugar |
3/4 teaspoon salt |
1 egg |
1-1/2 to 1-2/3 cups king arthur unbleached all-purpose flour |
topping: |
1 tablespoon beaten egg |
1/4 teaspoon cold water |
3/4 teaspoon sesame or poppy seeds, optional |
Directions:
1. In a small bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water. Add the oil, sugar, salt, egg and 1 cup flour. Beat until smooth. Stir in enough remaining flour to form a soft dough.
2. Turn onto a floured surface; knead until smooth and elastic, about 6-8 minutes. Place in a bowl coated with cooking spray, turning once to coat top. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1 hour.
3. Punch dough down. Turn onto a lightly floured surface; divide into thirds. Shape each portion into an 8-in. rope. Place ropes on a baking sheet coated with cooking spray and braid; pinch ends to seal and tuck under. Cover and let rise until doubled, about 45 minutes.
4. Beat egg and water; brush over braid. Sprinkle with sesame or poppy seeds if desired. Bake at 350° for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Remove to a wire rack to cool. Yield: 1 loaf (8 slices).
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