Description
This delicious braided sweet bread is studded with dried fruits, offering a delightful combination of flavors and textures. Perfect for breakfast or as a snack!
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup mixed dried fruits (such as raisins, cranberries, and apricots)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- Add melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract to the yeast mixture and stir until combined.
- Gradually add flour and salt, mixing until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Incorporate the dried fruits into the dough, kneading until evenly distributed.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Punch down the risen dough and divide it into three equal parts. Roll each piece into a long rope.
- Braid the three ropes together and tuck the ends underneath.
- Place the braided loaf on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover and let it rise again for about 30 minutes.
- Brush the top with beaten egg for a shiny finish.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown. Let cool before slicing.
Notes
- Feel free to use your favorite dried fruits or nuts in this recipe.
- Ensure that the milk is warm, but not hot, to activate the yeast properly.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 10
- Sodium: 150
- Fat: 5
- Saturated Fat: 2
- Unsaturated Fat: 3
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 39
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 5
- Cholesterol: 30
Keywords: braided sweet bread, sweet bread recipe, dried fruit bread, homemade bread, easy sweet bread, breakfast bread, braided bread with fruits