Orange Scented Easter Bread

Submitted by Chef mariajane

"This braided sweet bread looks as impressive as it tastes... and it's easier to make than you think! Serve it for Easter brunch or as a snack with tea. If you have any leftovers, this bread makes a delicious French Toast!!"

 

• Ready In: 30mins
• Ingredients: 10
• Yields: 2 loaves

ingredients

• 2 tablespoons active dry yeast (2 packages)
• 1⁄2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 6 -7 cups robin hood best for bread homestyle white flour
• 1 3⁄4 cups warm milk
• 4 eggs, lightly beaten
• 1⁄2 cup butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon orange zest

• GLAZE

• 1 1⁄2 cups icing sugar
• 2 -3 tablespoons orange juice

directions

1. Combine yeast, sugar, salt and 2 cups of flour in a large bowl, with a whisk or in the bowl of an electric mixer with a dough hook. Add the warm milk, eggs, butter and orange zest. Mix until smooth, about 3 minutes. Add remaining flor 1/2 cup at a time (you may not need all the flour). Until the dough is too stiff to stir by hand or if using a mixer enough flour to make a soft dough. Knead dough 10 minutes by hand or 5 minutes by mixer.
2. Place dough in an oiled bowl and roll around to coat. Cover with plastic wrap. Let rise in a warm place until doubled about 1-1 1/2 hours.
3. Punch dough down and divide in half. Divide each half in three strands and roll onto long ropes 14-inch long. Braid 3 strands together and place on parchment lined baking shet. Cover loosely with oiled plastsic wrap and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.,.
4. Bake in preheated 350F for 25-30 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 190°F If making 1 large bread, for 50-60 minutes.
5. GLAZE: Combine icing sugar and orange juice. Drizzle over warm bread.