Italian Herb Braid

Submitted by MarylandMomof3

"This is a recipe that came off a pkg of Fleischmann's Rapid-Rise yeast in the 90's. It's light and aromatic without being overpowered by seasoning. In my bread machine, I use regular yeast, put all liquids, then dry, then yeast and set it for a light 1.5lb loaf. It takes 3 hours to fully cook. Use dough setting"

 

• Ready In: 1hr 5mins
• Ingredients: 9
• Yields: 1 loaf
• Serves: 8

ingredients

• 2 3⁄4 - 3 1⁄4 cups bread flour
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1⁄4 ounce fast rise yeast
• 1⁄2 teaspoon oregano
• 1⁄2 teaspoon thyme
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 3⁄4 cup water
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 1⁄4 cup milk

directions

1. In large bowl, mix 1 1/4 C flour, sugar, yeast, oregano, thyme and salt.
2. In another bowl, combine water, butter and milk.
3. Microwave until 130 degrees f. Gradually add to dry ingredients.
4. Beat 2 minutes at medium, then 2 minutes on high.
5. With spoon, stir in enough flour to make soft elastic dough. Knead in adequate flour so that the dough is not sticky. (About 4 minutes.)
6. Divide dough into thirds and roll each into a 24" rope.
7. Braid three ropes and tuck ends under.
8. Brush with beaten egg and sprinkle with sesame seeds.
9. Place on greased baking sheet over a shallow pan half full of boiling water. Cover and let rise 25 minutes.
10. Bake at 400 for 25 minutes.
11. Cool on rack.

Reviews

[Outta Here]

I admit I was skeptical of the method for this recipe. Only one rising session? And over the boiling water? Well, guess what? It WORKS!!! This is a delicious loaf with a crusty exterior and soft interior. I used your ABM instructions in your note just through the "knead" cycle. My braiding technique could use some work, but since I plan on making this often, I will get lots of practice! :) Made for Fall 2012 PAC game.