Braided Sweet Bread Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
• 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 4 to 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 beaten egg, for brushing on bread
• Crystal sugar for topping

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, dissolve yeast in warm milk and let it stand until foamy, about 5-10 minutes.
2. Add sugar, eggs, melted butter, and salt. Mix well.
3. Gradually add flour, starting with 4 cups and adding more if necessary, to make a soft dough.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface until smooth and elastic, about 8-10 minutes.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, turning it to grease the top. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1 hour.
6. Punch down the dough and divide it into three equal parts. Roll each into a rope about 16 inches long.
7. Braid the ropes, and seal the ends. Place the braided loaf on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Cover and let rise until doubled, about 30 minutes.
9. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
10. Brush the loaf with beaten egg and sprinkle with crystal sugar.
11. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
12. Remove from oven and let cool on a wire rack before slicing.