For Bread
5 cups all-purpose flour
1 packet instant dry yeast
¼ cup granulated sugar
2 ½ tsp salt
1 cup of lukewarm water
½ cup whole milk
2 large eggs
¼ cup of softened butter
Egg Wash for the Top
1 large egg
1 Tbsp water
1 Tbsp sugar
(whisk together)
- Using a stand mixer or wooden spoon, add the lukewarm water, yeast, and sugar, mix until dissolved.
- Add the remaining bread ingredients and mix until it comes together to form a smooth ball of dough.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl (I use butter), cover with a damp towel and place it on the counter or in the oven with only the oven light on. Allow the dough to rise for 60-90 minutes or until it has doubled in size.
- While the dough is rising, grease a 9-inch round pan and set aside.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Cut off about a ¼ of the dough to make your braided cross. Shape the remaining large piece of dough and form it into a smooth ball, place it into the center of the greased pan.
- Now make your braided cross and place it on top of your dough ball in the pan, cover with the damp towel and allow it to rise for 45 minutes. It should almost double in size during that time.
- While the bread is rising, preheat your oven to 350 degrees.
- Whisk together your egg wash ingredients and gently brush the mixture over the loaf. Bake the bread for 35-45 minutes until golden brown. Cool and enjoy!