Description

A golden, bouncy loaf with velvety crumb and rich buttery flavor. Perfect for festivities or weeknights, customizable with toppings or braids for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

1 ½ cups warm water (105°F for yeast activation)
2 tablespoons active dry yeast (or 1 packet/2 ¼ tsp)
½ cup + 1 tbsp granulated sugar
3 large eggs + 1 yolk (room temperature), 1 egg reserved for wash
½ cup melted unsalted butter
1 tablespoon salt
5–6 cups bread flour (or all-purpose + 2 tbsp vital wheat gluten)

Instructions

In a large bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and 1 tbsp sugar. Wait 5-10 minutes until foamy.
Add remaining sugar, eggs, yolk, melted butter, and salt. Gradually mix in flour.
Knead on floured surface for 8-10 minutes until silky and stretchy.
Grease bowl, cover with towel, and let rise 1-2 hours in warm spot.
Punch down dough, divide into 3 strands, braid evenly tucking ends under.
Cover loosely and proof 30-45 minutes. Preheat oven to 350°F.
Brush with egg wash (1 reserved egg beaten with 1 tsp milk). Bake 28-32 minutes until golden.

Notes

Room-temperature eggs blend smoothly into butter-sugar mixture
Press fingers into dough during first rise to redistribute warmth
Braiding technique: ensure even strand thickness for traditional presentation
Egg wash application pointing downward prevents yolk discoloration

Prep Time: 20
Cook Time: 35
Category: Baking
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Jewish-American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 240
Sugar: 10g
Sodium: 300mg
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Carbohydrates: 34g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 6g
Cholesterol: 60mg