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Prep Time: 25 Minutes Cook Time: 25 Minutes |
Ready In: 50 Minutes Servings: 12 |
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Aniseed gives this festive Greek bread its unusual yet pleasing flavor. Everyone in the family runs to the kitchen for a fresh-from-the-oven slice. Ingredients:
1 tablespoon active dry yeast |
1/2 cup warm water (110° to 115°) |
1/4 cup butter, softened |
1/4 cup sugar |
2 eggs |
3 tablespoons instant nonfat dry milk powder |
1/2 teaspoon salt |
1/2 teaspoon crushed aniseed |
2-1/2 to 3 cups king arthur unbleached all-purpose flour |
topping: |
1 egg |
1 tablespoon milk |
2 tablespoons sesame seeds |
2 tablespoons chopped almonds |
2 tablespoons sugar |
Directions:
1. In a large bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water. Add the butter, sugar, eggs, milk powder, salt, aniseed and 2 cups flour. Beat on low speed for 3 minutes. Stir in enough remaining flour to form a soft dough.
2. Turn onto a 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; divide into thirds. Shape each into a 15-in. rope. Place ropes on a greased baking sheet; braid. Pinch ends to seal and tick under. Cover and let rise until doubled, about 45 minutes.
4. Beat egg and milk; brush over braid. Sprinkle with sesame seeds, almonds and sugar. Bake at 350° for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from pan to a wire rack to cool. Serve warm or at room temperature. Yield: 1 loaf (12 slices).
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