A Little Extra: Garlic-Herb Braid

It's been awhile since I've done anything extra at all. Definitely awhile since I have done any desserts but that's for a different day. But I decided I wanted to give some bread a shot, so what better time than now? I found this recipe in the Taste of Home Cookbook, which I love by the way.

Here's What You Need:
4 to 4-1/2 cups all-purpose flour
3 tablespoons sugar
2 package (1/4-ounce each) quick-rise yeast
2 teaspoons dried basil
1-3/4 teaspoons dill weed
1-1/2 teaspoons salt
3/4 teaspoons garlic powder
3/4 teaspoon dried rosemary, crushed
3/4 cup milk
1/2 cup water
1/4 cup butter, cubed
1 egg
1 tablespoon butter, melted

Here's What You Do:
In a large bowl, combine 1-1/2 cups flour, sugar, yeast, and seasonings. In a small saucepan, heat the milk, water, and cubed butter to 120-130 degrees. Add to dry ingredients; beat just until moistened. Add egg; beat until smooth. Stir in enough remaining flour to form a soft dough.

Turn onto a floured surface; knead until smooth and elastic, about 4-6 minutes. Cover and let rest for 10 minutes.

Divide dough into thirds. Shape each into a 15-inch rope. Place ropes on a greased baking sheet and braid; pinch ends to seal and tuck under. Cover and let rise until doubled, about 25 minutes.

Bake at 375 degrees for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Brush with melted butter. Remove from pan to a wire rack to cool.

I actually missed a step on accident, which meant that it wasn't perfect but it was actually really good. It's definitely one that I would make it again. It was delicious and really easy. I always find that it's rewarding to make my own bread. Yes I cook every day but that's an every day thing so it's not quite as exciting or rewarding as making something like this. All I know is that it was delicious and totally worth the time it took to make it!