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Choereg (Armenian Easter Bread)
Choereg (Armenian Easter Bread)
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Prep Time:
360 minutes
Cook Time:
25 minutes
Total Time:
385 minutes
Armenian Easter bread, Choereg, is a rich and sweet yeast bread with aromatic mahleb spice.
Ingredients:
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1 cup unsalted butter
  • 1 cup white sugar
  • 0.5 cup lukewarm water
  • 2 teaspoons white sugar
  • 2 (.25 ounce) envelopes active dry yeast
  • 5 eggs
  • 6 cups all-purpose flour, or as needed
  • 1.5 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1.5 tablespoons ground mahleb
  • 1.5 teaspoons salt
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
Instructions:
  • In a saucepan over medium heat, gently melt butter and margarine in milk - avoid boiling. Stir in 1 cup of sugar until dissolved, then let it cool to lukewarm before using.
  • In a small bowl, mix 2 teaspoons of sugar with warm water until dissolved. Sprinkle the yeast on the surface and let it sit until frothy, approximately 10 minutes.
  • In a large bowl, crack the eggs and gently stir to break up the yolks. Slowly pour in the warmed milk mixture while whisking continuously to temper the eggs. Add the yeast mixture and stir until just combined.
  • In a large bowl, mix flour, baking powder, mahleb, and salt. Create a well in the center and pour in the egg mixture. Stir until a sticky dough forms. Transfer to a floured surface, knead in more flour as needed for a firm dough. Knead for 10 minutes. Place in an oiled bowl, let it rise in a warm spot for about 2 hours or until doubled in size.
  • After the dough has doubled, gently punch it down and allow it to rise again until doubled in size. It will rise quicker this time, approximately half the time.
  • Divide dough into 5 equal parts, then further divide each into thirds. Roll each portion into 12-inch long ropes. Braid sets of three ropes together, securing ends and tucking underneath for a neat appearance. Arrange loaves on parchment-lined baking sheets, leaving 4 inches between each. Allow loaves to rise in a warm spot until gently poking with your finger leaves an impression.
  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C), then brush the loaves with beaten egg and sprinkle sesame seeds on top for a tasty finish.
  • Bake until beautifully golden brown all over in the preheated oven for approximately 25 minutes.

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