Buttermilk Braid

Thoroughly mix flour, (dry) yeast, sugar, salt and grated orange zest in a large bowl.

Warm the buttermilk to lukewarm and stir in the honey.

Add the buttermilk-honey mixture to the flour, place the soft butter in small pieces on the edge of the flour and knead everything into a smooth dough (about 8 minutes).

Cover the dough and let it rest for about 30 minutes.

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Knead the dough briefly, divide into three equal pieces and shape them into rolls about 28 cm long.

Braid the three dough rolls into a plait and place it on the prepared baking sheet.

Cover the braid and let it rise again for about 30 minutes.

Preheat the oven to 180°C (fan). Beat the egg yolk with 1 tbsp water, brush the braid with it and sprinkle with pearl sugar.

Bake the buttermilk braid for 35–40 minutes. Then remove and cool on a wire rack.