Egg Bread

Total Time Prep: 30 min. + rising Bake: 30 min.
Yield 2 loaves (16 pieces each)
Test Kitchen Approved
Our egg bread recipe is a showstopping bake for any occasion. The impressive, braided loaves are pillowy, soft and finished with an egg wash for a glorious shine.

Ingredients

  • 2 packages (1/4 ounce each) active dry yeast
  • 1/2 cup warm water (110° to 115°)
  • 1-1/2 cups warm 2% milk (110° to 115°)
  • 3 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1/4 cup butter, softened
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1 tablespoon salt
  • 7 to 7-1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 large egg yolk, room temperature
  • 2 tablespoons water
  • Sesame seeds

Directions

  1. In a large bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water. Add milk, eggs, butter, sugar, salt and 3 cups flour; beat on medium speed until smooth. Stir in enough remaining flour to form a soft dough.
  2. Turn dough onto a floured surface; knead until smooth and elastic, 6-8 minutes. Place in a greased bowl, turning once to grease the top. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, 1-1/2 to 2 hours.
  3. Punch down dough. Turn onto a lightly floured surface; divide into 6 portions. Roll each portion into a 14-in. rope. For each loaf, braid 3 ropes together on a greased baking sheet; pinch ends to seal and tuck under. Cover with kitchen towels; let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 50 minutes. Preheat oven to 375°.
  4. Beat together egg yolk and 2 tablespoons water; brush over loaves. Sprinkle with sesame seeds. Bake until golden brown, 30-35 minutes. Remove from pans to wire racks to cool.

Nutrition Facts

1 slice: 135 calories, 3g fat (1g saturated fat), 28mg cholesterol, 245mg sodium, 23g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 4g protein.

People rave about this tender, delicate bread every time I serve it. The braided look is just beautiful and is actually quite easy to do. —June Mullins, Livonia, Missouri
Recipe Creator

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