About the Recipe
What You'll Love
Ingredients
1 CUP warm water
2¼ TSP active dry yeast
¼ CUP honey
⅓ CUP vegetable oil
2 LARGE eggs
1 TSP salt
4 CUPS all-purpose flour
2 TBSP hibiscus powder
sesame seeds or pearl sugar (optional garnishes)
Preparation
In a bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together honey, vegetable oil, eggs, and salt. Add the yeast mixture and mix well.
Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic.
Divide the dough in half. Set one portion aside and to the other, add hibiscus powder. Knead until the powder is evenly distributed, creating a vibrant deep purple-pink dough.
Place each portion of dough in separate greased bowls, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours or until it has doubled in size.
Once risen, punch down the dough and divide each portion into two to three equal parts. Roll each part into a long rope.
Braid the ropes together, alternating between the regular and hibiscus dough to create a marbled effect.
Place the braided bread on a baking sheet or in a bread pan lined with parchment paper, cover with a cloth, and let rise for an additional 30-45 minutes.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Beat an egg and brush it over the top for a shiny finish. Sprinkle with sesame seeds or pearl sugar for extra visual appeal if you so desire.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the loaf sound hollow when tapped.
Allow the honey and hibiscus bread to cool before slicing and serving. Enjoy!
