Czech Christmas Bread

• 2 packages (1/4 ounce each) active dry yeast
• 1/2 cup warm water (110u0b0 to 115u0b0)
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 3/4 cup warm milk (110u0b0 to 115u0b0)
• 1/2 cup butter, softened
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 tablespoon grated lemon zest
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground mace
• 5-1/2 to 6 cups all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup golden raisins
• 1 large egg yolk
• 1 tablespoon water

1. In a large bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water. Add the sugar, milk, butter, eggs, lemon zest, salt, mace and 3 cups flour. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes or until smooth. Stir in enough remaining flour to form a soft dough (dough will be sticky).
2. Turn onto a lightly floured surface; knead until smooth and elastic, about 6-8 minutes. Place in a greased bowl, turning once to grease top. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1 hour.
3. Punch dough down. Turn onto a lightly floured surface; knead in raisins. Divide dough into six equal portions. Shape each into a 20-in. rope. Place three ropes on a greased
4. ; braid. Pinch ends to seal and tuck under. Repeat with remaining ropes.
5. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 45 minutes. Beat egg yolk and water; brush over loaves. Bake at 350u0b0 for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown. Cool on wire racks.

active dry yeast, warm water, sugar, warm milk, butter, eggs, lemon zest, salt, ground mace, allpurpose, golden raisins, egg yolk, water

Taken from www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/czech-christmas-bread/ (may not work)