SWEET AND GOLDEN EASTER BREAD

Sweet and Golden Easter Bread image

It is an Italian tradition to make this sweet, golden braid at Easter. This family heirloom recipe came from my mother-in-law and was passed down to her from her mother. If you're not a fan of raisins, the bread is just as wonderful without them. -Kathi West, Canton, Michigan

Provided by Taste of Home

Time 1h5m

Yield 2 loaves.

Number Of Ingredients 12

Ingredients

2 packages (1/4 ounce each) active dry yeast
3 tablespoons warm water (110° to 115°)
1-1/3 cups warm milk (110° to 115°)
2/3 cup sugar
2/3 cup butter, softened
1-1/4 teaspoons salt
2 large eggs
3 teaspoons anise extract
6 to 6-1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2/3 cup raisins
1 large egg white, beaten
1 tablespoon water

Steps:

In a large bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water. Add the milk, sugar, butter and salt; mix well. Add eggs, extract and 2 cups flour; beat until smooth. Stir in enough remaining flour to form a soft dough. , Turn onto a floured surface; knead until smooth and elastic, about 8-10 minutes. Place in a greased bowl, turning once to grease the top. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1 hour. , Punch dough down. Turn onto a lightly floured surface; sprinkle with raisins and knead in. Divide in half. Divide each portion into thirds. Shape each into a 14-in. rope. Place three ropes on a greased baking sheet, and braid; pinch ends to seal and tuck under. Repeat with remaining dough. Cover and let rise until doubled, about 45 minutes., Whisk egg white and water; brush over braids. Bake at 325° for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from pans to wire racks to cool.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 158 calories, Fat 5g fat (3g saturated fat), Cholesterol 24mg cholesterol, Sodium 130mg sodium, Carbohydrate 25g carbohydrate (7g sugars, Fiber 1g fiber), Protein 4g protein.