Ukrainian Easter Bread Braid

If you have been reading my blog for awhile now then you probably know that I am Ukrainian. Today, I baked Ukrainian Easter Bread. This is not quite the way my Grandma's made it but close. On Easter I am going to have my Grandma tell me her recipe and then next year I think I will make it. If you like a lightly sweet bread you will like this...my husband loves it!

Ukrainian Easter Bread Braid

1 package (1/4 ounce) active dry yeast
1/4 cup warm water (110° to 115°)
1 cup warm 2% milk (110° to 115°)
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 cup butter, softened
3 eggs
1/2 teaspoon salt
5-1/2 to 6 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup golden raisins

GARNISH:
1 egg, lightly beaten
2 tablespoons sliced almonds
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If you like a glaze on your sweet bread you can mix up some cream cheese, powdered sugar and a bit of orange juice. :)

Directions
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. {yes I used my kitchen aid} Stir in raisins.
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 a warm place until doubled, about 1 hour. {again, I used my kitchen aid ;) }
Punch dough down. Turn onto a lightly floured surface; divide dough into six portions. Shape each into a 12-in. 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.
Brush with egg; sprinkle with almonds. Bake at 350° for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown. Cool on wire racks.

God sent His Son,
They called him Jesus.
He came to love, heal, and forgive.
He lived and died
To buy my pardon.
An empty tomb is there to prove my Savior lives!

Because He lives, I can face tomorrow;
Because He lives, all fear is gone.
Because I KNOW He holds the future
My life is worth the living
Just because... HE LIVES!!!

by Gloria & William Gaither

Happy Easter
to you and yours.