Abby's French Bread Braids

Experience the art of homemade breadmaking with Abby's French Bread Braids, a visually stunning and delightfully soft loaf perfect for any occasion. This braided bread recipe combines simple pantry staples—like all-purpose flour, warm water, and yeast—with a touch of artistry as you weave the dough into an elegant braid. With just 20 minutes of hands-on prep, Abby's French Bread Braids offer an inviting golden crust, thanks to a glossy egg wash, and optional sesame seeds for added texture and flavor. Ideal for sandwiches, to pair with soups, or simply enjoyed on its own, this bread is a true showstopper for both weeknight dinners and special celebrations. Perfect your bread-braiding skills while creating a bakery-worthy centerpiece right in your kitchen!

Nutriscore Rating: 71/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:45 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 1.25 cups warm water
• 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 3.5 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon water
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)

Directions

Step 1

In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.

Step 2

Stir in the salt and vegetable oil, then gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing until a soft dough forms.

Step 3

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.

Step 4

Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.

Step 5

Punch down the dough and divide it into 3 equal portions. Roll each portion into a long rope, about 16 inches long.

Step 6

Position the ropes side-by-side and pinch the tops together. Braid the ropes, tucking the ends underneath to secure the braid.

Step 7

Transfer the braid to a parchment-lined baking sheet and cover loosely with plastic wrap. Allow it to rise for another 30 minutes.

Step 8

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and 1 tablespoon of water to make an egg wash.

Step 9

Brush the egg wash over the bread braid, and if desired, sprinkle sesame seeds on top.

Step 10

Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Step 11

Let the bread cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving. Enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(849.7g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1968.3

Total Fat 42.1g	0%
Saturated Fat 6.8g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 18.5g
Cholesterol 196mg	0%
Sodium 2471.1mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 339.2g	0%
Dietary Fiber 14.4g	0%
Total Sugars 13.5g
Protein 54.5g	0%

Vitamin D 48IU	0%
Calcium 171.5mg	0%
Iron 22.0mg	0%
Potassium 745.7mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 19.4%

Protein: 11.2%

Carbs: 69.4%