This bread is made in Turkey at Easter time. Most important ingredient is Mahlep (could also be referred to as Mahlab). It is a bit sweet and is served with jams, honey and cheeses (especially Feta cheese).
1 cup warm milk and water mixture
1.5 tablespoon dry yeast
1/2 cup sugar
3 eggs (save one of the yolks for the top)
125 gr. butter (room temperature)
2 teaspoon mahlep
5-6 cup floor
Top:
1 egg yolk
1 tablespoon cold water
Optional: sliced almonds or crushed hazelnuts
(Makes 8 breads)
- In a large bowl, combine warm milk and water mixture, sugar and yeast. Let it sit for 15 minutes
- Separate the yolk of 1 egg and save it for the top.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the egg and butter. No need to use a mixer. Just use a fork.
- Combine milk mixture, egg mixture and add the mahlep, and salt
- Start adding flour slowly. Once it starts forming the dough use your hands.
- You need a soft dough which does not stick to your hands
- Cover and let it rest (30 minutes or more)
- Make 8 balls. Make 3 equal strands from each one and braid as seen in the picture for each bun.
- Mix the saved egg yolk with one tablespoon water and brush onto each bun
- Optional: sprinkle sliced almonds or crushed hazelnuts
- Let your buns rest until oven is preheated
- Preheat oven 350 degrees
- Cook for 30-40 minutes until golden brown
