Bread (Easy Egg Braid)
This easy egg braid bread features a soft, flavorful interior with a golden crust, perfect for breakfast or as a serving alongside meals, appealing to bread lovers of all levels.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine 2 cups flour, yeast, sugar, and salt.
- Mix well.
- Heat water, milk, and shortening until warm (shortening does not need to melt), then add to the flour mixture.
- Add eggs.
- Beat for 3 minutes at medium speed.
- By hand, gradually stir in the remaining flour to make a firm dough.
- Knead until smooth and elastic, at least 5 minutes.
- Place in a greased bowl, turning to grease the top.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using whole milk instead of water. If you don't have shortening, unsalted butter can be a good substitute. Ensure your yeast is fresh for optimal rising; if in doubt, proof it by dissolving in warm water with a pinch of sugar before use. Adding herbs or cheese to the dough can elevate the taste, making it a perfect side for dishes like Grandma'S Lima Beans.
Serving Suggestions
This easy egg braid is delightful on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with butter and jam for breakfast. Consider serving it alongside a fresh salad or as a side with soups and stews. For a complete meal, try it with a hearty dish like Can't Beat Me Coffee Cake(Heritage Recipe). It also complements savory spreads perfectly.
Storage & Reheating
Once the bread has cooled completely, store it in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, place slices in a toaster or wrap in foil and warm in the oven until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Bread (Easy Egg Braid) contains roughly 776 calories, with 17g protein, 147g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (46% of the Daily Value), iron (43% of the Daily Value), and protein (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2020mg per serving (88% 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
How can I tell when the bread is fully baked?
To check if the bread is done, tap the bottom of the loaf; it should sound hollow. Alternatively, use a kitchen thermometer to ensure the internal temperature has reached about 190°F (88°C). This ensures a properly cooked and fluffy bread.
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).