Description
This braided sweet bread is a delightful treat, filled with sweetened dried fruits and topped with a glossy glaze. Perfect for breakfast or as a dessert!
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons instant yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup whole milk, warmed
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup mixed dried fruits (raisins, cranberries, apricots, etc.)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon water (for egg wash)
- Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, instant yeast, and salt. Mix well.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the warmed milk, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and dried fruits until well combined.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Once risen, punch down the dough and divide it into three equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope.
- Braid the three ropes together, pinching the ends to seal. Place the braided loaf on a lined baking sheet.
- Cover and let rise again for about 30 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix the egg and water to make an egg wash. Brush the mixture over the braided loaf.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Allow to cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar if desired. Slice and serve!
Notes
- Feel free to substitute any dried fruits you prefer.
- For added flavor, you can include spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg in the dough.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 8
- Sodium: 150
- Fat: 5
- Saturated Fat: 3
- Carbohydrates: 30
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 4
- Cholesterol: 40
Keywords: braided sweet bread, sweet bread with dried fruits, homemade bread, holiday bread, braided bread recipe, easy sweet bread