Zopf

Ingredients

• Egg - 1, beaten
• Butter - 1/2 cup, melted
• Milk - 1 cup, lukewarm
• Salt - 1 teaspoon
• Sugar - 1/4 cup
• Active dry yeast - 2 1/4 teaspoons
• All - purpose flour - 4 cups

Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt.
2. Add the lukewarm milk and melted butter to the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Punch down the dough and divide it into 3 equal portions. Roll each portion into a long rope.
6. Braid the ropes together, tucking the ends under to seal.
7. Transfer the braided dough to a greased baking sheet. Cover with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
8. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
9. Brush the braided dough with the beaten egg.
10. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
11. Remove from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.