Brioche Braid

== Description ==
* Makes 1 loaf.
== Ingredients ==
* 1 package active dry yeast
* ¾ cup warm water
* 2 tablespoons sugar
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 3 cups unbleached flour
* 3 eggs
* ½ cup soft butter
* 1 cup diced fontina, Gruyère or Jarlsberg cheese (optional)
== Method ==
# Sprinkle the yeast into warm water in a large mixing bowl. 
# Let stand until puffy. 
# Add sugar, salt, and one cup of flour; beat well. 
# Add three eggs, one at a time. Beat until smooth. 
# Beat in the butter and gradually add enough remaining flour to make a soft dough. 
# Turn out on a floured board. Knead until smooth and satiny. 
# Place in a greased bowl. 
# Butter the top of dough lightly. Cover with a towel. Let rise in a warm place until doubled in size. 
# Mix in the cheese if used and turn out on a floured board. Knead lightly. 
# Divide into three pieces and shape into long ropes; braid the strands and tuck ends under. 
# Place on a greased baking sheet and cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size. 
# Preheat the oven to 350°F. 
# Bake in the oven for 30 to 35 minutes or until golden brown, and the loaf sounds hollow when thumped.
Category:French Vegetarian
Category:French Snacks
Category:Bread Recipes
Category:Instant yeast Recipes
Category:Unbleached flour Recipes
Category:Egg Recipes
Category:Fontina Recipes
Category:Gruyère Recipes
Category:Jarlsberg Recipes