Celebration Bread

I served this fancy bread as part of our Easter dinner.  It was so yummy.  I love that this bread looks so fancy but its really not any more difficult than making any other type of homemade bread.

2 pkgs. (0.25 oz- each) active dry yeast

1 c warm water (110°-115°)
⅓ c butter, softened
¼ c sugar
1 t salt
2 eggs
4 ½ - 5 c all-purpose flour
1 egg yolk
1 T cold water

In a large bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water. Add the butter, sugar, salt, eggs, and 3 c flour. Beat on medium speed for 3 minutes. Stir in enough remaining flour to form a soft dough.


Turn onto a floured surface; knead until smooth and elastic, about 6-8 minutes. Place in a greased bowl, turning once to grease top. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1 hour.


Punch dough down. Turn onto a lightly floured surface; divide into four pieces. Shape each piece into an 18-inch rope. Place ropes parallel to each other on a greased baking sheet.


Beginning from the right side, braid dough by placing the first rope over the second rope, under the third and over the fourth. Repeat three or four times, beginning each time from the right side. Pinch ends to seal and tuck under.


Cover and let rise until doubled, about 45 minutes. Beat egg yolk and water; brush over braid. Bake at 350° for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from pan to a wire rack to cool. Makes 1 loaf.