How to Make Braided Bread - Braiding Homemade Bread

By Mariette Mifflin, About.com Guide

Carefully transfer the braid by lifting up both ends and place on a greased baking sheet. Use a large baking sheet and grease with either margarine or cooking oil. Place the braid centering it corner to corner to allow lots of room to rise.

Set the braid to rise:

Place the baking sheet with the braid either in the oven with only the oven light on (no heat), or cover with a clean tea towel and place it in a warm place free of drafts. The rising will take about 40 minutes - set your timer. It may rise double in size or less. It will only need the one rising.