Easter Bread

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups milk
• 1 stick butter
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 tablespoon anise seed
• 1/4 cup warm water
• 1 tablespoon yeast
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 6 cups flour
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 2 eggs lightly beaten
• 6 colored eggs uncooked
• Egg wash (one egg beaten with 1 tablespoon water)

Instructions

1. 1
   Heat the milk in the microwave until it bubbles. Stir in the sugar, butter and anise and allow to cool.
2. 2
   Meanwhile, dissolve the yeast in the warm water and add one teaspoon of sugar. Allow to proof for 5 minutes. Stir the salt into 4 cups of the flour.
3. 3
   Add the milk and yeast mixtures and stir to forma batter. Add the two eggs and continue to stir. Gradually add enough flour to make a dough.
4. 4
   Turn out on a floured surface and knead for at least 8 minutes until very smooth. Place in a bowl and cover. Let rise until doubled in size. Turn the dough out and cut into three pieces.
5. 5
   Roll each piece into a long rope about 1/2 inch thick. Braid the ropes and join the ends to make a round loaf.
6. 6
   Place on a baking sheet that has been greased or covered with parchment paper. Separate the folds of the dough at intervals and insert the colored eggs.
7. 7
   Let rise again for abut an hour. Brush carefully with the egg wash and bake at 350 degrees until deep golden brown. Transfer to a rack and cool.