Breaking (from) bread

Haven't made any zopf for a while. I think I need a break from white bread. But I was entranced by this windowful of buttery goodness while walking around the Niederdorf on Saturday.

Comments

[Mira]

Mmmmmmm...challah. Fabulous fresh and makes the world's absolute best french toast when leftover (if there is any). I happen to have a wonderful recipe if you want it.

[Peter Huber]

Hello Mira,

I would love that Zopf recipe........ haven't made one for a very long time.

[kitschenette]

mira, i too would love the challah recipe!

[Mira]

Here's the challah recipe, I hope you like it! I find it to be a very easy recipe and very tasty. I actually have to bake a double batch in order to ensure that I have enough left over for french toast.

5-6 cups flor
6 tablespoons sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon dry yeast
1 large pinch ginger
1/2 cup softened margerine
1 cup hot water
4 eggs at room temperature

In a very large bowl:
Mix together 1 1/4 cups flour, sugar, salt, yeast, and ginger.
Add margerine and water and mix well.
Add eggs and 1/2 cup flour, mix well
Add enough flour to to make a soft dough
Knead until smooth
Lightly coat dough with oil
Cover and place in draft free spot until double in bulk
Punch down and divide in half
Divide each half into three equal portions
Roll out each portion
Braid from center to end, turning to get other end
Tuck ends under

note: Can brush with water or beaten egg yolk and sprinkle with poppy seeds or sesame seeds at this point

Let rise until double (uncovered)

Bake 375 for 30 minutes or until golden brown.

Enjoy!