Description
A delightful homemade bread that is great for sandwiches or enjoyed on its own, featuring a beautiful braided design.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm water
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Sesame seeds or poppy seeds (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Dissolve the sugar in warm water and add the yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- Combine flour and salt in a large mixing bowl. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture and olive oil.
- Mix until a dough forms, then knead on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a cloth, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 60 minutes.
- Punch down the dough and divide it into three equal parts. Roll each part into a long strand.
- Braid the strands together and shape into a loaf.
- Place the loaf on a greased baking sheet, cover, and let rise for another 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Brush the loaf with beaten egg and sprinkle with seeds if desired.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
- Let cool before slicing and serving.
Notes
Make sure your water is warm but not hot. Knead the dough well to develop gluten. You can experiment with different toppings for unique flavors.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 20mg