Sour Cream Yogurt Braid
I won best of show at the county fair with this favorite yeast bread. I like to shape the dough into an attractive braid. It smells wonderful coming out of the oven, and everyone likes the texture and flavor.
-Marie Hattrup
The Dalles, Oregon
SERVINGS
|
12
|
CATEGORY
|
Breads
|
METHOD
|
Baked
|
PREP |
30 min. |
COOK
|
20 min.
|
TOTAL
|
50 min.
|
INGREDIENTS
- 2 packages (1/4 ounce each) active dry yeast
- 1/3 cup plus 1/2 cup warm water (110° to 115°), divided
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt
- 4 tablespoons butter, divided
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3-1/2 to 4-1/2 cups bread flour
- Cornmeal
DIRECTIONS
In a small bowl, dissolve yeast in 1/3 cup warm water. In a large mixing bowl, beat sour cream, yogurt, 2 tablespoons butter, sugar, salt and remaining water.
Add yeast mixture and 2 cups flour; beat until smooth. Stir in enough of the remaining flour to form a soft dough.
Turn onto a floured surface; knead until smooth and elastic, about 6-8 minutes. Place in a greased bowl, turning once to grease top. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1 hour.
Punch dough down. Turn onto a lightly floured surface. Divide into thirds. Shape each into a 16-in. rope. Grease a baking sheet and sprinkle with cornmeal. Place three ropes on prepared baking sheet and braid; pinch seams to seal and tuck ends under.
Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 30 minutes. Bake at 400° for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Melt remaining butter; brush over braid. Yield: 1 loaf.