Sesame Wheat Braid

 
I like to make breads; wheat breads, sweet breads, egg breads…. There is truly nothing like the smell of freshly baking bread, in the kitchen. It is wonderfully satisfying! It inspires me to bake some more :-)

 
Ingredients:
1/3 cup warm milk
2-1/4 tsp. active dry yeast
1 tsp. sugar
2 eggs, divided
1 tbsp. sugar
1 cup water
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 tsp. salt
1/2 cup whole wheat flour
2-1/2 to 3 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons sesame seeds

Directions:





In a small bowl, dissolve yeast and sugar in the warm milk. Set aside until foamy.
 


In a large bowl mix together one egg, sugar, water and oil;  mix in the yeast. Add the whole wheat flour and salt and mix well. Add 2 cups all-purpose flour and beat until smooth. (You can also use a mixer if you want).




 


Add enough remaining flour and work it in with your hands to form a soft dough.
 


Turn onto a floured surface; knead by folding over, until smooth and elastic, about 6-8 minutes. (kneading and taking pictures...doesn't work that well)



Place in a greased bowl, turning once to grease top. Cover bowl and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 45 minutes.
 


Dough has risen, (when pushed with fingers, leaves an  indentation).
 


Punch dough down and divide in three parts. Shape each into a rope about 15 in. long.
 

Place the ropes on a greased baking sheet and braid them together. Pinch each end firmly and tuck under. (I used  my floured board then transferred to the pan).
 


Cover and let rise for 45 minutes in the pan.
 


In a small bowl whisk egg until frothy. Brush braid and sprinkle with sesame seeds.

Bake at 350° for 20-25 minutes. Remove from baking sheet to cool on a wire rack. 

Makes: 1 loaf

Happy Baking!

Leia’s Culinary Treasures