Step #1
METHOD: (makes 1 loaf): Place the bread mix into a mixing bowl, add caster sugar, softened butter, 2 eggs and milk. Mix together to form a dough ball then knead for 5 minutes using a minimum of dusting flour. The dough will be quite soft but tighten up during kneading.
Step #2
Cover with a damp tea towel; lightly oiled plastic or polythene and rest for 5 minutes.
Step #3
Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces, mould each piece round then elongate to approximately 45cm (18 inches). Fix the four pieces together at one end and proceed to plait in the following sequence: 2 over 3; 4 over 2; 1 over 3 until the plait is completed.
Step #4
Secure and tuck ends under before placing the plaited loaf onto a large, lightly greased baking tray. Cover with a damp tea towel; lightly oiled plastic or polythene and leave to prove in a warm place for approximately 40-50 minutes or until dough has doubled in size.
Step #5
Carefully remove the cover and gently brush loaf over with egg yolk / water mixture before baking.
Step #6
Bake in centre of oven at 210°C (410°F) gas mark 6½ for approximately 30-35 minutes until deep golden brown. NOTE: The loaf should sound hollow when tapped on its base if baking is complete.
