Sweet Braided Loaves

Total Time

Prep: 45 min. + rising Bake: 25 min. + cooling

Makes

2 loaves (12 slices each)

Updated: Feb. 03, 2023
“This recipe was handed down from my grandmother. I make it for my family every year for Easter morning.” —Diane Turner, Brunswick, Ohio
Sweet Braided Loaves Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Ingredients

  • 1 package (1/4 ounce) active dry yeast
  • 1/4 cup warm water (110° to 115°)
  • 1 cup warm 2% milk (110° to 115°)
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1/2 cup butter, softened
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 5-1/2 to 6 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup golden raisins
  • GARNISH:
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 2 tablespoons sliced almonds

Directions

  1. In a large bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water. Add the milk, sugar, butter, eggs, salt and 3 cups flour; beat until smooth. Stir in enough remaining flour to form a soft dough. Stir in raisins.
  2. Turn onto a floured surface; knead until smooth and elastic, about 6-8 minutes. Place in a greased bowl, turning once to grease the top. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1 hour.
  3. Punch dough down. Turn onto a lightly floured surface; divide dough into six portions. Shape each into a 12-in. rope. Place three ropes on a greased baking sheet and braid; pinch ends to seal and tuck under. Repeat with remaining ropes. Cover and let rise until doubled, about 45 minutes.
  4. Brush with egg; sprinkle with almonds. Bake at 350° for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown. Cool on wire racks.

Nutrition Facts

1 slice: 194 calories, 6g fat (3g saturated fat), 46mg cholesterol, 93mg sodium, 32g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 1g fiber), 5g protein.