Description

This green flecked braided dill bread is an easy, hearty loaf perfect for family dinners. It fills your kitchen with comforting aroma and transforms basic ingredients into a special, flavorful bread.

Ingredients

Scale

3.5 cups (420g) All-Purpose Flour
2.25 teaspoons (7g) Active Dry Yeast
2 tablespoons (25g) Granulated Sugar
1.5 teaspoons (9g) Fine Sea Salt
1 cup (240ml) Warm Milk (105-115°F or 40-46°C)
0.25 cup (57g) Unsalted Butter, melted
0.5 cup (20g) Fresh Dill, finely chopped
1 Large Egg (optional, for egg wash)

Instructions

Activate Yeast: Warm 1 cup (240ml) milk and 2 tablespoons sugar to 105-115°F (40-46°C). Stir in 2.25 teaspoons active dry yeast in a large bowl. Let sit for 10 minutes until visibly foamy. (If it doesn’t foam, your yeast may be old; start fresh.)
Mix Dough: Combine 3.5 cups flour and 1.5 teaspoons salt. Add yeast mixture and 0.25 cup melted butter. Mix until a shaggy, sticky dough forms.
Knead Dough: Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic, springing back when poked. (A stand mixer with a dough hook can be used.)
First Rise: Place oiled dough in a clean bowl. Cover, let rise in a warm spot for 60-90 minutes until visibly doubled and puffy.
Add Dill & Shape: Gently punch down dough. Fold in 0.5 cup fresh dill, distributing green flecks evenly. Divide into three, roll into 16-inch ropes, then braid. Tuck ends under.
Second Rise: Place shaped loaf on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover loosely. Let rise again for 30-45 minutes until noticeably puffy.
Bake Loaf: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush loaf with egg wash (if using) for a golden finish. Bake 30-35 minutes until deep golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped.
Cool Bread: Transfer to a wire rack. Let cool completely for 30 minutes before slicing. (This ensures the crumb sets.)

Notes

For best flavor and color, use fresh, vibrant dill. If yeast doesn’t foam during activation, it may be old. For dairy-free, use plant-based milk and vegan butter. Cooling completely before slicing is crucial for the crumb to set properly.

Prep Time: 35 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Bread
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 70 g)
Calories: 200 calories
Sugar: 5 g
Sodium: 180 mg
Fat: 6 g
Saturated Fat: 3 g
Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 30 g
Fiber: 1 g
Protein: 6 g
Cholesterol: 10 mg

Keywords: green flecked braided dill bread, homemade bread, easy bread, braided bread, family dinner, weeknight, baking, comfort food