A Simple Braided Bread

Instructions

1. Thaw frozen bread until it can be cut in half (lengthwise) with a sharp knife, but has not started to rise.
2. Take the halves and roll them out to about 16 inches in length and about 1 inch in diameter. The length and width are not that important, but they should all be the same length and width.
3. Braid 3 of the halves together to make 2 loaves. Tuck the ends under so they will stay together and not burn.
4. Place the loaves on a baking sheet that has been sprayed with non-stick spray and coated with corn meal. The corn meal is not necessary but addes that homemade look.
5. Brush the egg wash on the bread and sprinkle with the poppy or sesame seeds.
6. Let rise until double in size (Appr. 45 min.).
7. Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
8. Place loaves in the center of the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the bread tapped sounds hollow. Option--at the end of 15 minutes turn the bread around. This insures even browning.
9. Remove the bread from the baking sheet and cool on a wire rack.
10. Note: I make this bread at Christmas time and give them to friends along with homemade cookies and candy.