Swiss Egg Bread - Challah Braid
Swiss Egg Bread, featuring a rich, slightly sweet flavor and a beautiful braided appearance, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or special occasions, appealing to bread lovers and those seeking a traditional treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat the milk in a saucepan.
- Remove the milk from heat and add sugar and margarine.
- Stir until the margarine melts and mixture is combined.
- In a large bowl, sprinkle yeast over warm water.
- Stir until the yeast is dissolved.
- Add the milk mixture and eggs to the yeast, one at a time, mixing well.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer dough, consider substituting half of the milk with buttermilk or adding an extra egg for added richness. If you’re out of margarine, unsalted butter works well. To activate the yeast faster, ensure the water is around 110°F and avoid overheating the milk, which can kill the yeast. Knead the dough until smooth for best texture.
Serving Suggestions
This Swiss Egg Bread is delightful served warm, slathered with butter or cream cheese. It pairs beautifully with a light Radish Salad or can be enjoyed as a base for sandwiches. Consider serving it alongside a creamy spread like Creamy Cucumber Spread for a refreshing appetizer or snack.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Swiss Egg Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, slice the bread and freeze it, wrapping each slice in plastic wrap and then in foil. To reheat, pop slices in a toaster or warm them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Swiss Egg Bread - Challah Braid contains roughly 397 calories, with 27g protein, 62g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (62% of the Daily Value) and protein (53% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 666mg per serving (29% 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 instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes, you can substitute instant yeast for active dry yeast in this recipe. Use the same amount, and there's no need to dissolve it in water. Simply mix it directly into the dry ingredients before adding wet ingredients.
What if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough is sticky, gradually add more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches the desired consistency. Be careful not to add too much flour, as this can make the bread dense. Kneading thoroughly can also help improve the dough's texture.
Can I add toppings to the bread before baking?
Absolutely! You can sprinkle sesame seeds or poppy seeds on top for added flavor and texture. For a sweet touch, brush the braid with egg wash and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar before baking for a delicious crust.
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).