Joanna Gaines Braided Bread

This Joanna Gaines Braided Bread is made with warm water, active dry yeast, sugar, all-purpose flour, kosher salt, canola oil, and eggs, then baked in the oven at 375°F for about 28-30 minutes until golden brown.

This Jewish bread called challah is famous in Jewish communities and is often served during Shabbat and Jewish holidays. It’s also enjoyed as a versatile bread for sandwiches, French toast, and more.

Note: This Braided Bread recipe is from “Magnolia Table, Volume 2” by Joanna Gaines, found on page 201 under the name “Braided Loaf.”

Braided Bread Ingredients

• ¾ cup warm water (95° to 110ºF)
• 1 packet (¼-ounce) active dry yeast
• 3 tsp sugar
• 3½ cups all-purpose flour (extra for dusting)
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 3 tbsp canola oil
• 2 large eggs
• Cooking spray
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp heavy cream
• 2 tsp sesame seeds

How To Make Braided Bread

1. Prepare Yeast Mixture: In a small bowl, mix ¼ cup warm water, yeast, and 1 tsp sugar. Wait for 5 minutes until it gets foamy.
2. Make the Dough: In a stand mixer with a dough hook, mix flour, remaining sugar, and salt. Add the yeast mix, remaining warm water, oil, and eggs. Mix on medium for 5 minutes until the dough forms a ball.
3. Let it Rise: Spray a large bowl with cooking spray. Place the dough in it and cover with plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour.
4. Shape the Dough: Punch down the dough and divide it into 3 equal parts. Roll each into a 15-inch rope on a floured surface.
5. Braid and Rest: Place the ropes on a greased baking sheet and braid them. Cover with plastic wrap and let it rise for 45 minutes.
6. Bake: Preheat the oven to 375ºF. For the topping, whisk an egg and cream together. Brush it over the dough and sprinkle sesame seeds. Bake Braided Bread for about 28-30 minutes until golden brown.

How Do You Know When Braided Bread Is Done?

Serve this Braided Bread loaf with salted butter, cheeses, or cold cuts. You can also eat it as a side with soups or use it for sandwiches.

What To Serve With Braided Bread

Serve this Braided Bread loaf with salted butter, cheeses, or cold cuts. You can also eat it as a side with soups or use it for sandwiches.

How Long Does Braided Bread Last In The Fridge

Braided Bread can last in the fridge for about 3 to 5 days. To store it correctly, let the loaf cool, then wrap it with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container before putting it in the fridge.

Can I Freeze Braided Bread

Yes, this Braided Bread can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to serve it again, thaw it in the refrigerator or at room temperature.

How To Reheat Braided Bread

Reheat Braided Bread in the oven at 350ºF for about 5-10 minutes, or until it’s warm to the touch.

Braided Bread Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 180
• Protein: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fat: 4g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 3g

Try More Joanna Gaines Recipes:

• Pumpkin Cream Cheese Bread
• Blueberry Muffins
• French Toast Casserole
• Banana Muffins
• Cupcake Recipe