Greek Easter Tsoureki Bread

Step 1

In a small bowl, whisk together 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F, warm to touch but not hot) and 1 tablespoon instant yeast, then let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy on top.

Step 2

Zest 1 orange over a small bowl by rubbing the orange across a microplane grater, collecting about 1 tablespoon of bright-orange zest (avoid the white pith).

Step 3

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 4 cups flour, 0.5 cup granulated sugar, 0.25 teaspoon ground cardamom, and 1 teaspoon salt until uniform.

Step 4

Pour the yeast mixture into the flour, then add 3 whole eggs and the orange zest and stir with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms with no dry flour visible.

Step 5

Add 6 tablespoons softened butter in three additions, stirring each time until the butter is fully absorbed and the dough becomes smooth and elastic, about 10 minutes of continuous stirring.

Step 6

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead by pushing it away from you with the heel of your hand, then folding it back toward you—repeat this motion for 8 minutes until the dough is smooth, supple, and springs back when poked.

Step 7

Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot (like near a sunny window) until doubled in size, about 90 minutes.

Step 8

Turn the risen dough out onto a work surface and divide it into 3 equal pieces by eye, rolling each piece into a rope about 16 inches long and 1 inch thick.

Step 9

Braid the three ropes together by laying them parallel, then lifting the right rope over the center, then the left rope over the new center, repeating until braided; pinch the ends to seal.

Step 10

Place the braided loaf on a parchment-lined baking sheet and cover loosely with a damp towel, allowing it to rise for 45 minutes until puffy and nearly doubled.

Step 11

Set the oven to 350°F and wait until the indicator light signals it has finished heating, about 10 minutes.

Step 12

Beat the remaining 1 egg yolk in a small bowl, then brush it gently over the entire surface of the loaf to coat evenly.

Step 13

Sprinkle 2 tablespoons sesame seeds evenly over the egg-washed loaf, pressing them gently so they stick.

Step 14

Slide the baking sheet into the oven and bake for 40 minutes until the top is deep golden brown and sounds hollow when you tap it with your knuckles.

Step 15

Remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool on the baking sheet for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire cooling rack and cool completely before slicing.