Zopf (Swiss)

Ingredients

• 1/4 ounce active dry yeast
• 1 1/3 cups milk, warm
• 1 egg yolk
• 2 tablespoons butter, softened
• 3 1/2 cups bread flour
• 1 egg white
• 1 tablespoon water

Directions

1. 1

   In a large bowl, dissolve yeast in warm milk.

2. 2

   Let stand until creamy, about 10 minutes. Add the egg yolk, butter and 2 cups of bread flour; stir well to combine.

3. 3

   Stir in the remaining flour, 1/2 cup at a time, beating well after each addition.

4. 4

   When the dough has pulled together, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and knead until smooth and elastic, about 8 minutes.

5. 5

   Divide the dough into 3 equal pieces and roll each piece into a 14 inch long cylinder.

6. 6

   Braid the pieces together and place on a lightly greased baking sheet.

7. 7

   Cover with a damp cloth and let rise until doubled in size, about 1 hour.

8. 8

   Meanwhile, preheat oven to 425 degrees F (220 degrees C).

9. 9

   In a small bowl, beat together egg white and water.

10. 10

    Brush risen loaf with egg wash.

11. 11

    Bake in preheated oven for 20 to 25, until golden.