Imagine waking up to the enticing aroma of freshly baked bread infused with tart raspberries and sweet blackberries. This Berry Braided Bread is not just a visual masterpiece; its tender, fluffy texture and delightful berry filling make it an unforgettable part of your breakfast or brunch spread.
Prep Time15 minutesmins
Cook Time30 minutesmins
Total Time45 minutesmins
Course: Breakfast, Brunch
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Baking, Easy
Servings: 8servings
Calories: 250kcal
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
2.25cupsAll-purpose flour
1envelopeActive dry yeast
1TbspGranulated sugar
1tspCinnamon
0.5tspSalt
Wet Ingredients
0.75cupMilk, warmed to 110 degrees
2TbspButter, melted
1largeEgg
Filling
4TbspButter, very soft
0.25cupGranulated sugar
2tspCinnamon
1cupRaspberries
1cupBlackberries
Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cinnamon, and salt. In a separate bowl, mix the warmed milk and active dry yeast. Let this mixture sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
Step 2: In the yeast mixture, add the melted butter and the egg. Whisk until fully combined. Gradually add the liquid mixture to the flour mixture, stirring until a dough begins to form.
Step 3: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic. Form the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl, covering it with a damp cloth. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
Step 4: While the dough is rising, prepare the filling by mixing together the very soft butter, granulated sugar, and cinnamon in a small bowl until well combined. Set aside.
Step 5: Gently fold in the raspberries and blackberries into the butter-sugar mixture. Be careful not to mash the berries.
Step 6: Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Roll the dough out into a rectangle about ΒΌ inch thick. Spread the berry filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
Step 7: Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut the dough into strips on both sides of the filling, making sure to leave the center intact. Alternating from one side and then the other, fold each strip over the filling to create a braid. Pinch the ends to seal.
Step 8: Carefully transfer the braided bread to a greased baking tray or a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover with a cloth and allow it to rise for another 30 minutes.
Step 9: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Bake the braided bread for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Step 10: Once baked, let the bread cool on a wire rack. Dust with powdered sugar before serving. Slice, savor, and enjoy!
Equipment
Mixing Bowl
Baking Tray
Wire Rack
Notes
Ensure your milk is at the right temperature (about 110 degrees); too hot will kill the yeast. Choose ripe, fresh berries for the best flavor.