Prep Time: 45 min + rising | Bake: 25 mins + cooling | Yield: 2 loaves (12 slices each)

Ingredients:

1 pkg. (1/4 oz.) active dry yeast

1/4 cup warm water (110°-115°)

1 cup warm milk (110°-115°)

1/2 cup sugar

1/2 cup butter, softened

3 eggs

1/2 tsp salt

5 1/2-6 cups all-purpose flour

1 cup golden raisins

Garnish

1 egg, beaten

2 tbsp sliced almonds

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water. Add the milk, sugar, butter, eggs, salt and 3 cups flour; beat until smooth. Stir in enough remaining flour to form a soft dough. Stir in raisins.
  2. Turn onto a floured surface; knead until smooth and elastic, about 6-8 minutes. Place in a greased bowl, turning once to grease the top. Cover and let rise in warm place until doubled, about 1 hour.
  3. Punch dough down. Turn onto a lightly floured surface; divide dough into six portions. Shape each into a 12″ rope. Place three ropes on a greased baking sheet and braid; pinch ends to seal and tuck under. Repeat with remaining ropes. Cover and let rise until doubled, about 45 minutes.
  4. Brush with egg; sprinkle with almonds. Bake at 350°F for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown. Cool on wire racks.