Embrace the essence of homemade baking with minimal effort using this Easy Blueberry Braid recipe, a delightful twist on traditional yeast cakes. By combining the convenience of a stand mixer with the sun's warmth to expedite the rising process, this recipe offers a fuss-free approach to achieving a beautifully braided, fruit-filled pastry. The natural sweetness of honey pairs perfectly with the tartness of fresh blueberries, creating a moist and flavorful cake that's a perfect match for your coffee break, a sweet snack on the go, or a welcoming treat for work colleagues.
Why You'll Love This: This blueberry braid stands out for its simplicity and the rustic charm of braided bread, filled with the juicy goodness of blueberries. The honey not only adds a subtle sweetness but also ensures the cake remains moist and tender. It's a versatile recipe that can be adapted to include your favorite seasonal fruits, making it a year-round favorite. With the added texture of a homemade crumble topping, this braid is as satisfying to make as it is to eat, offering a balance of flavors that are not overly sweet but just right.
Perfect Occasion: Ideal for any day when the craving for something sweet and homemade strikes, this Easy Blueberry Braid is particularly fitting for lazy weekend mornings, informal gatherings, or as a thoughtful homemade gift. It's a wonderful addition to picnic baskets, potluck dinners, or simply as a treat to brighten up any day. The delightful aroma that fills the kitchen as it bakes is sure to gather everyone around the table, ready to enjoy a slice of comfort.
Decoration Tips: For an added touch of elegance, a light dusting of powdered sugar over the cooled braid adds a visually appealing finish. If serving at a gathering, accompany slices of the braid with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for those who prefer a creamier texture. Garnish with fresh blueberries or mint leaves for a pop of color and freshness that enhances the overall presentation.
Ingredients:
- 350g all-purpose flour, sifted
- 100ml lukewarm milk
- 20g fresh yeast (or 7-10g dry yeast)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 50g soft butter (melted and cooled)
- 2 eggs
- 200g fresh blueberries mixed with 1 tablespoon potato starch
- For the crumble topping: 30g flour, 30g butter, 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
Instructions:
- In the mixer bowl, dissolve yeast in milk with honey. Add flour, softened butter, and eggs, kneading until smooth. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface into a 30x40cm rectangle. Sprinkle blueberries evenly over the dough, roll up, and transfer to parchment paper.
- Cut the roll lengthwise and braid. Place in a loaf pan lined with parchment.
- Brush with milk and sprinkle with crumble mixture. Let rise for 20 minutes.
- Bake at 180°C (356°F) for 30-35 minutes on a lower oven rack. If necessary, cover with parchment to prevent over-browning.
- Cool and dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Indulge in this Easy Blueberry Braid, a testament to the joy of baking with fresh ingredients and the satisfaction of creating something beautiful and delicious with minimal effort.