Greek Easter Bread

Ingredients

• 1 package active dry yeast
• 1/2 cup warm water (110-115°F)
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 eggs
• 1/2 cup butter, softened
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 4 1/2 to 5 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon grated orange zest
• 1/2 cup currants or raisins
• 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
• 2 tablespoons orange juice

Directions

1. In a large bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water. Add sugar, salt, eggs, butter, nutmeg, orange zest and orange juice; mix well.
2. Add 2 cups of the flour; beat until smooth. Stir in enough remaining flour to form a soft dough.
3. Turn onto a lightly floured surface; knead until smooth and elastic, about 6-8 minutes. Place in a greased bowl, turning once to grease the top.
4. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1 hour.
5. Punch dough down. Turn onto a lightly floured surface; knead in currants or raisins. Divide in half. Shape each into a round loaf. Place on greased baking sheets.
6. Brush the loaves with sesame seeds. Cover and let rise until doubled, about 45 minutes.
7. Bake at 375°F for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from pans to wire racks to cool.

Interesting Facts

• In Greece, Easter bread is known as Tsoureki.
• The traditional shape of the bread is a round braid, and it is often decorated with eggs or coins.
• Easter bread is traditionally served on Easter Sunday, along with Easter eggs and other special foods.