Braided Bread Wreath

Directions

1. 1
   Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Line a sheet pan with parchment and sprinkle with a thin layer of cornmeal.
2. 2
   On a floured work surface, roll out the 3 dough portions into 3 long ropes.
3. 3
   Line the 3 ropes up next to each other with the top ends overlapping and the bottom ends about 3 inches apart.
4. 4
   Pinch the top ends.
5. 5
   Braid the ropes together; pull the left section over to the center, then hold the old center section with your left hand and pull it to the side.
6. 6
   Finally, bring the right section over the center.
7. 7
   Repeat the process, alternating sides, until the entire length of bread is braided.
8. 8
   Join both ends to form a round wreath.
9. 9
   Transfer the dough wreath to the parchment lined sheet pan.
10. 10
    Dust with flour, and cover with a kitchen towel.
11. 11
    Let proof in a warm spot for 45 minutes.
12. 12
    In a small bowl mix together the olive oil, garlic, paprika, Italian seasoning, and cheese.
13. 13
    Set aside.
14. 14
    Beat the egg with the water in a small bowl, and set aside
15. 15
    Bake the bread wreath in the preheated oven for 40 minutes.
16. 16
    Reduce the oven temperature to 350 degrees F. Remove the bread from the oven, and brush it with the olive oil mixture.
17. 17
    Put it back in the oven, and bake it for an additional 20 minutes.
18. 18
    In the last 10 minutes of baking, coat the entire wreath with the egg wash and sprinkle with coarse salt.
19. 19
    Remove from the oven and serve hot.