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Authentic German Hefezopf, a sweet braided bread perfect for any occasion.

Hefezopf

A tender and lightly sweet braided German bread that pairs perfectly with breakfast or dessert.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Breakfast, Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: German
Calories: 210
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Dough
  • 4 cups All purpose flour Plus more for dusting
  • 1 cup Milk, lukewarm Feel like warm bath water, not hot
  • 2.25 teaspoons Active dry yeast or instant yeast Instant yeast can be mixed directly with dry ingredients
  • 1/3 cup Granulated sugar Adjust according to taste preference
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Enhances flavor
  • 1/3 cup Butter, softened At room temperature
  • 2 large Eggs For dough and egg wash
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla Optional for added flavor
  • 1 large Egg wash: 1 egg plus a splash of milk For brushing before baking

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Warm the milk until it feels like warm bath water, then stir in a little sugar and yeast, and wait until foamy.
  2. Mix flour, sugar, and salt. Add the yeast milk, eggs, butter, and vanilla. Knead until smooth and elastic.
  3. Put the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover, and let it rise until doubled, about 60 to 90 minutes.
  4. Divide the dough into 3 equal pieces and braid them together. Tuck the ends under.
  5. Let the braid rise again for about 30 to 45 minutes.
  6. Brush with egg wash and bake in a preheated oven until deep golden, about 25 to 30 minutes.
  7. Allow to cool for at least 20 minutes before slicing.

Notes

For serving, warm slightly and enjoy with butter, jam, or honey. Can also be made in advance by refrigerating overnight or freezing.