Sunday Bread

Directions

1. 1
   In a bowl, stir together the water and yeast.
2. 2
   Let sit for 5 minutes.
3. 3
   In a stand mixer, with a paddle attachment, mix the flour and salt.
4. 4
   Pour the yeast into the flour and add the honey.
5. 5
   Mix slowly until the mixture is just incorporated and the dough is formed.
6. 6
   Remove the dough from the mixer and knead by hand on a lightly-floured surface.
7. 7
   Knead for 1 minute.
8. 8
   Place the dough in a bowl and cover with plastic wrap.
9. 9
   Let sit for 30 minutes.
10. 10
    Turn the dough out onto a lightly-floured surface and roll into a loaf shape.
11. 11
    With kitchen scissors, or a sharp paring knife, cut 6 notches into the dough at a 45-degree angle.
12. 12
    Take one piece of dough and pull it left, the next piece of dough, pull right.
13. 13
    Repeat with all pieces until you have a shape that resembles leaves on a branch.
14. 14
    Transfer to a baking sheet and let rest for 20 minutes.
15. 15
    Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Using a fork, beat the egg with 1 teaspoon water and brush the egg wash onto the top of the bread.
16. 16
    Bake the bread for 20 minutes, or until golden and baked through.