Introduction
Baking homemade bread can be a rewarding experience, and this recipe blends rich flavors and delightful textures. The combination of whole milk, almond extract, and orange zest creates a unique taste, while the honey-roasted sliced almonds and pastel sprinkles add a decorative touch. Let’s dive into the detailed ingredients needed to create this wonderful bread.
Ingredients
For the Bread:
1½ cups whole milk (341 grams)
6 tablespoons unsalted butter (85 grams, ¾ stick)
¼ teaspoon almond extract (1 gram)
⅔ cup granulated sugar (133 grams)
2 tablespoons orange zest (from 1 orange)
4½ teaspoons active dry yeast (14 grams, 2 packages)
1 teaspoon kosher salt (3 grams)
6 cups all-purpose flour (720 grams), plus more for kneading
3 large eggs (150 grams), lightly beaten
For the Topping:
1 large egg (50 grams), lightly beaten
1 tablespoon cold water (14 grams)
1 cup honey-roasted sliced almonds (86 grams)
1 tablespoon pastel sprinkles or nonpareils (12 grams)
Prep Time
Preparation time for this bread recipe typically takes around 15-20 minutes, which allows you to gather the ingredients and prepare the initial mixture.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook time for the bread is between 40-55 minutes in the oven. Including the rising time, the total time for making this bread is approximately 3 hours, yielding one delicious braided loaf that serves multiple people. Enjoy your baking adventure!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Warm the Ingredients
In a small saucepan over medium-low heat, warm the milk, butter, and almond extract until the mixture reaches 120°-130°F.
Step 2: Prepare the Sugar Mixture
In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine the sugar and orange zest. Rub them together with your fingertips until well combined.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
Add the yeast, salt, and 2 cups of flour to the sugar mixture. Mix on low to combine.
Step 4: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
Pour the warm milk mixture into the dry ingredients and beat on medium-low speed for 2 minutes.
Step 5: Add Eggs
Add the beaten eggs and continue beating for another 2 minutes.
Step 6: Form the Dough
Gradually add the remaining 4 cups of flour, beating until a soft dough forms. Increase the speed to medium-high and beat until the dough pulls away from the sides of the bowl, about 5 minutes. The dough will be sticky.
Step 7: Knead the Dough
Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead, adding extra flour as needed, for about 6-8 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
Step 8: First Rise
Place the dough in a lightly buttered large bowl, turning it to coat all sides with butter. Cover with plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1-1½ hours.
Step 9: Prepare the Baking Sheet
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly spray with nonstick cooking spray.
Step 10: Shape the Dough
Once the dough has doubled, punch it down and transfer to a lightly floured surface. Divide it into three equal parts and roll each into a 20-inch-long rope.
Step 11: Braid the Loaf
Place the ropes on the prepared baking sheet and press them together at one end. Braid the ropes together and tuck the ends under. Cover with lightly sprayed plastic wrap and let it rise until doubled, about 30 minutes to 1 hour.
Step 12: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 350°F.
Step 13: Apply Egg Wash and Toppings
In a small bowl, mix the beaten egg and cold water. Brush this egg wash over the braided loaf. Sprinkle with sliced almonds and pastel sprinkles, focusing more towards the center as the loaf will spread during baking.
Step 14: Bake the Loaf
Bake for 40-55 minutes, until golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped.
Step 15: Cool the Bread
Transfer the bread to a cooling rack and let it cool for 30 minutes before slicing.
Notes
Note 1: Temperature Check
Ensure that the milk mixture is at the correct temperature for optimal yeast activation.
Note 2: Dough Consistency
If the dough remains too sticky after mixing, gradually add additional flour during kneading.
Note 3: Rising Environment
For the best rise, place the dough in a warm, draft-free area while it rises.
Note 4: Baking Time Variations
Oven temperatures may vary, so start checking the bread at the lower end of the baking time range.
Cook techniques
Warming Milk
Gently heat the milk, butter, and almond extract until the mixture reaches 120°-130°F. This temperature activates the yeast and ensures a good rise.
Combining Ingredients
When combining sugar and orange zest, rub them together with your fingertips to release the oils from the zest, enhancing the flavor.
Mixing Dough
Use a stand mixer with a paddle attachment to combine the dry ingredients and the wet ingredients, ensuring even distribution for a consistent dough.
Kneading Dough
Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead it for about 6-8 minutes until smooth and elastic. This step develops gluten, giving the bread its structure.
First Rise
After kneading, let the dough rise in a lightly buttered bowl, covered with plastic wrap, in a warm place until it doubles in size. This process helps develop flavor and texture.
Braiding Bread
Divide the risen dough into three equal parts, shape them into ropes, and braid them together. Tucking the ends under creates a polished look and helps the bread hold its shape.
Applying Egg Wash
Brush the braided loaf with a mixture of beaten egg and cold water to achieve a golden, glossy finish during baking.
Baking
Bake the bread until it is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped, which indicates it is fully cooked and ready to enjoy.
FAQ
What is the purpose of warming the milk?
Warming the milk activates the yeast, helping the dough to rise properly.
Why do you rub the sugar and orange zest together?
This technique releases the oils from the zest, enhancing the overall flavor of the bread.
How do you know when the dough is ready to bake?
The dough should be golden brown and sound hollow when tapped to indicate it is fully cooked.
What can I use instead of almond extract?
You can substitute almond extract with vanilla extract if desired, but the flavor will differ.
Can I freeze the bread after baking?
Yes, the bread can be wrapped tightly and frozen for up to three months. Ensure it is properly cooled before freezing.
Conclusion
This delicious braided bread, enriched with milk, butter, and a hint of almond and orange, is perfect for festive occasions or a delightful breakfast treat. Its golden brown crust, topped with honey-roasted almonds and colorful sprinkles, not only looks visually appealing but also offers a delightful texture and flavor experience. Enjoying this bread fresh out of the oven will be a memorable treat for family and friends.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Fruit and Nut Variation
Add dried fruits such as raisins or cranberries and mix in chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture and flavor.
Cinnamon Sugar Twist
Incorporate a cinnamon and sugar filling in the braids for a sweet, spiced variation, and top it with a sweet glaze after baking.
Herbed and Garlic Bread
Replace the almond extract with minced garlic and fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for a savory version, perfect as a side for soups.
Chocolate Chip Delight
Mix in chocolate chips before braiding for a sweet, indulgent bread that can be enjoyed as a dessert.
Lemon Glaze Finish
After baking, drizzle a simple lemon glaze made with powdered sugar and lemon juice over the bread for a refreshing twist.
