Festive Bread

The Crispy Chef

This soft and buttery enriched bread is the perfect showstopper for your holiday table. With a golden crust, tender crumb, and endless shaping options, it's ideal for sharing and celebration.

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Prep Time 30

Cook Time 30

Total Time 1

Course Bread

Cuisine American, Holiday

Servings large loaf

Calories 220 kcal

Equipment

Mixing bowl
Dough hook or hands for kneading
baking sheet or round pan
Pastry brush
plastic wrap or towel

Ingredients

4 cups all-purpose flour (plus more for dusting)
0.25 cup granulated sugar
2.25 teaspoons instant yeast (1 packet)
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup whole milk, warmed to 110°F (43°C)
2 large eggs, room temperature
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
1 egg yolk (for egg wash)
optional toppings: sesame seeds, poppy seeds, dried cranberries, or herbs

Instructions

In a large bowl, whisk flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. Make a well and add warm milk, eggs, and softened butter. Mix into a shaggy dough, then knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 to 1½ hours until doubled in size.
Punch down dough. Shape into braid, rolls, wreath, or star. For braid, divide into 3 ropes and twist together. Place on parchment-lined baking sheet or pan.
Cover shaped dough and let rise again for 30–45 minutes until puffy. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Brush with egg yolk. Add toppings if using. Bake 25–30 minutes for large loaf or 18–20 minutes for rolls, until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped.
Let cool for 15 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with butter, honey, or olive oil.

Notes

For best results, allow full rising time and use an egg wash for shine. Customize with herbs, cheeses, or dried fruits. Shape into a braid, star, or wreath for festive presentation. Let it cool slightly before slicing to maintain softness.

Nutrition

Calories: 220kcalCarbohydrates: 31gProtein: 6gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 65mgSodium: 190mgPotassium: 90mgFiber: 1gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 290IUCalcium: 40mgIron: 2mg

Keyword braided bread, dinner roll alternative, festive loaf, holiday bread