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Braided Yeasted Dough

17/11/2023

The braided yeasted dough is a delicious interwoven bread that’s soft and fragrant, which can be served as either a sweet or savory bakery item. I propose a sweet version, which is typical for breakfast or a snack.

Ingredients

  • 500 g of soft wheat flour (preferably type 0 or type 1)
  • 200 ml of lukewarm milk
  • 70 g of sugar
  • 70 g of soft butter
  • 2 eggs (1 whole for the dough and 1 yolk for brushing)
  • 25 g of fresh yeast or 7 g of dry yeast
  • 1 teaspoon of salt
  • Grated zest of 1 lemon (optional for an aromatic touch)
  • 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract (optional)
  • Powdered sugar for decoration (optional)

Preparation

  1. Dough: In a large bowl, dissolve the yeast in the lukewarm milk with a teaspoon of sugar. Let it rest for a few minutes until it starts to foam. Add the flour, remaining sugar, the whole egg, soft butter, grated lemon zest, and vanilla extract; start to knead. After an initial mix, add the salt and continue to work until you get a smooth and elastic dough. Leave the dough in the bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and place it in a warm spot to rise for about 2 hours, or until it has doubled in volume.

  2. Braiding: Take the risen dough and transfer it onto a floured surface. Divide it into three equal parts and roll each into a long ‘rope’. Join the three ropes at one end and gently braid them to the end, then seal the other end as well.

  3. Second Rising: Place the braid on a baking tray lined with parchment paper and let it rise again, covered with a cloth, for about 1 hour, or until it increases in volume.

  4. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Gently brush the surface of the braid with a beaten egg yolk; this will help achieve a golden and shiny crust. You can also sprinkle the braid with powdered sugar or sugar sprinkles before baking if you prefer a sweeter finish.

  5. Bake: Bake the braid in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until it turns a nice golden color.

  6. Cooling: Remove the braid from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack before serving.

Curiosity

The braided yeasted dough can be customized in many ways. Some add raisins, candied fruit, or chocolate chips to the dough for an even more indulgent version. Additionally, the braid is a symbol of conviviality and celebration in many cultures, often brought as a gift during visits to friends and relatives’ homes.

Braided Yeasted Dough