Auntie Ann'S Swiss Braided Bread
Auntie Ann's Swiss Braided Bread boasts a rich, buttery flavor with a soft interior and glossy crust, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a special treat with family and friends.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dissolve yeast in warm water and sugar.
- In a saucepan, melt butter, then add milk until warm, and add beaten eggs.
- In a large bowl, combine flour and salt, make a well, and pour in the yeast mixture and the milk mixture.
- Stir well, knead the dough, then place in a greased bowl to rise.
- Preheat oven to 120°F (turned off). Place the dough inside and let it rise for about 30 minutes.
- Divide the risen dough into four pieces. Braid the pieces, with one end larger than the other, and brush with an egg yolk.
- Return the braided bread to the oven at 120°F for 10 minutes.
- Increase oven temperature to 425°F and bake for 30 to 40 minutes until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
When braiding the dough, ensure that each piece is of equal size for even baking. If you're short on time, you can use pre-made dough from the store as a substitute. For a richer flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of honey to the milk mixture. If you prefer a sweeter bread, you can sprinkle some sugar on top before baking, giving it a delightful crust.
Serving Suggestions
This Swiss Braided Bread is perfect for breakfast with butter and jam or as a side to a hearty soup. It also pairs beautifully with Country Candied Yams for a comforting meal. For an elegant touch, serve it alongside a cheese platter or use it for sandwiches. A slice toasted with a dash of cinnamon makes for a delightful afternoon snack.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, wrap the braided bread in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, slice the bread and place it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to three months. To reheat, wrap it in foil and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Auntie Ann'S Swiss Braided Bread contains roughly 2056 calories, with 6g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 212g fat. It is a good source of protein (13% of the Daily Value) and iron (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1295mg per serving (56% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute up to half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and added nutrition. However, this may alter the texture slightly, making it denser. Adjust the liquid accordingly if the dough feels too dry.
How can I tell when the bread is fully baked?
The bread is fully baked when it is golden brown on the outside and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. You can also use an instant-read thermometer; the internal temperature should be around 190°F for a perfectly baked loaf.
Can I add fillings to the bread?
Absolutely! You can add fillings like cinnamon and sugar, dried fruits, or even cheese and herbs before braiding. Just make sure not to overfill, as this can make the bread difficult to braid and may cause it to burst during baking.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).