Christmas Braid

Name: Christmas Braid
Ingredients: 5 to 5-1/2 cups all-purpose flour, divided; 1 package (1/4 ounce) active dry yeast; 2 cups whole milk; 1/2 cup sugar; 6 tablespoons butter, cubed; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 large egg; 1 cup raisins; 1 cup finely chopped mixed candied fruit; 1/2 cup chopped nuts; 1 large egg yolk; 1 tablepoon water

12 ingredients

2 steps

Ingredients

5 to 5-1/2 cups all-purpose flour, divided
1 package (1/4 ounce) active dry yeast
2 cups whole milk
1/2 cup sugar
6 tablespoons butter, cubed
1 teaspoon salt
1 large egg
1 cup raisins
1 cup finely chopped mixed candied fruit
1/2 cup chopped nuts
1 large egg yolk
1 tablepoon water

Directions

1

In a large bowl, combine 3 cups flour and yeast. In a saucepan, heat milk, sugar, butter and salt to 120°-130°; add to flour mixture. Add egg. Beat on low speed with electric mixture for 30 seconds; increase speed to medium and continue beating for 3 minutes. Stir in raisins, candied fruit, nuts an enough remaining flour to form a stiff dough. Turn out onto a floured surface and knead until smooth and elastic, about 8-10 minutes. Place in a greased bowl, turning once to grease top. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1-1/2 hours. Divide dough in thirds, then divide each into thirds again. Roll each piece into a 15-in. rope. Place 3 ropes 1 in. apart on greased
2

. Begin braiding loosely in the middle and work toward the ends. Pinch ends together and tuck under. Repeat with remaining ropes. Cover and let rise until doubled, about 30-40 minutes. Combine egg yolk and water; brush over braids. Bake at 350° for 20-25 minutes or until browned. Cool on wire racks.