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“Classic Braided Challah Bread”
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet (about 2 1/4 teaspoons) instant yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
- 2 large eggs
For the Egg Wash:
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 tablespoon water
Equipment:
- Large mixing bowl
- Dough hook or hand mixer
- Pastry brush
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
Instructions:
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, yeast, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, mix the melted butter, warm milk, and eggs. Pour this mixture into the dry ingredients.
- Using a dough hook or a hand mixer, knead the mixture until it forms a smooth, elastic dough, about 7-10 minutes. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour.
- First Rise:
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 to 1.5 hours.
- Shape the Bread:
- Punch down the risen dough and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface.
- Divide the dough into three equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long strand, about 16 inches long.
- Braid the three strands together, pinching the ends to seal and tucking them under the loaf.
- Second Rise:
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Place the braided loaf on the prepared baking sheet, cover it lightly, and let it rise again until puffed, about 30-45 minutes.
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Apply Egg Wash:
- Just before baking, gently brush the loaf with the beaten egg mixed with water. This will give the bread a shiny, golden finish.
- Bake:
- Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until it is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Cool:
- Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve this bread as part of a meal, with butter, or use it to make delicious sandwiches.
Title for the Recipe:
“Golden Braided Bread Masterpiece”
This title reflects the visually stunning nature of the bread as well as its delightful taste, making it a perfect addition to any baker’s repertoire. Enjoy the process of baking and sharing this lovely bread!
