How to Braid Bread

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By eHow Contributing Writer

Article Rating: (5 Ratings)

Home-baked bread tastes delicious, but you can treat your family and guests even more by making your homemade bread look just like it does in the bakery window. Simple braiding techniques that look complicated can be replicated by you in the comfort of your own kitchen. Read on to learn how to braid bread.

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Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

A Three-Rope Braid

Step 1

Select a bread dough that is not too sticky and is firm enough to stand up to braiding.
Step 2

Divide dough into three even sections and roll the sections into 12-inch long ropes.
Step 3

Braid the three sections as you would if you were braiding hair. Hold the outer sections. Pull the left section over to the center. Then hold the old center section with your left hand and pull it to the side. Finally, bring the right section over the center. Repeat the process, alternating sides, until the entire length of bread is braided.
Step 4

Press each end of the braid together and secure under the loaf. Place the bread on a baking sheet to rise and complete the baking according to your recipe.

A Five-Rope Braid

Step 1

Divide bread into three even ropes and two thinner ropes.
Step 2

Twist the two thinner sections until the entire length of bread is twisted together.
Step 3

Braid the three larger sections of dough as you would for a three-rope bread.
Step 4

Place the twist on top of the braided section and press down to secure it. Pinch each end of the loaf and secure the ends under the loaf.
Step 5

Place the loaf on a baking sheet and allow to rise before baking according to the recipe directions.