Velvet

Zopf (Swiss Braided Sunday Bread)

Inspired by techniques from King Arthur Baking.

Zopf · Swiss

A milk, butter and soured cream dough plaited into a loaf and baked to a glossy golden crust.

Prep30 min
Cook35 min
Total1 h 5 min
DifficultyMedium
Per serving229 kcal
FreeVegetarian
Servings12Recipe makes 12
Allergens (EU 14)
GlutenCrustaceansEggsFishPeanutsSoybeansMilkTree nutsCeleryMustardSesameSulphitesLupinMolluscs

Always check the labels of the products you use.

Method

  1. 1

    Knead. Mix the flour, yeast, sugar and salt, add the milk and soured cream and knead 5 min, then add the butter and knead 8 min more until silky.

  2. 2

    Rise. Cover and leave about 1 h until doubled.

  3. 3

    Braid. Divide into 3, roll each into a 45 cm rope tapered at the ends, pinch together at the top and plait loosely, tucking both ends under.

  4. 4

    Prove. Set on the lined tray, brush with glaze and leave uncovered 40 min until puffy. Heat the oven to 190 °C (170 °C fan).

  5. 5

    Bake. Brush again and bake 30-35 min until deep golden and the centre reads 88-90 °C.

  6. 6

    Cool. Cool on a rack at least 30 min before slicing.

Storage

Keep wrapped at room temperature for up to 3 days, or slice and freeze for up to 1 month. Cool leftovers in a shallow container and refrigerate within 2 hours (within 1 hour on a day above 32°C).

Equipment

  • large bowl or stand mixer
  • baking tray
  • baking paper
  • pastry brush
  • food thermometer

Nutrition per serving (estimated values)

Per servingAmount
Energy229 kcal
Protein5.6 g
Carbohydrate34.4 g
of which sugars2.4 g
of which free sugars1 g
Fat7.4 g
of which saturates4.1 g
Fibre1.3 g
Salt0.76 g

Protein per 100 kcal

2.4 g High Protein needs ≥ 10 g

Calculated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient values