Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup warm milk (110°F)
- 3 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp ground cardamom (optional)
- 1 egg yolk + 1 tbsp water (for egg wash)
- Colored sprinkles or dyed eggs for decoration
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: Combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy. Add eggs, butter, vanilla, and cardamom. Gradually add flour and salt while mixing. Knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
- First Rise: Transfer dough to greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1-1.5 hours until doubled.
- Shape the Bread: Punch down dough, divide into 3 equal pieces. Roll into ropes and braid together on baking sheet.
- Second Rise and Bake: Cover braid and let rise 30-45 minutes. Brush with egg wash and bake at 350°F for 25-30 minutes until golden.
- Decorate: Cool slightly before adding glaze and sprinkles or dyed eggs.
Notes
- Ensure milk is warm but not hot to activate yeast properly
- For extra shine, brush with melted butter after baking
- Add 1/4 cup raisins or currants for traditional variation
- If dough is sticky, add flour 1 tablespoon at a time
- For round loaf, form braid into circle before second rise
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12 of loaf)
- Calories: 280 Kcal
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 75mg