Italian Easter Bread (Anise-Flavored)

Ingredients

• 1 package active dry yeast
• 1/4 cup warm water
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 4 eggs
• 3/4 cup butter, melted
• 3/4 cup milk, warmed
• 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon anise seed
• 1/2 cup raisins

Directions

1. In a large bowl, dissolve the yeast in the warm water. Add the sugar, salt, eggs, melted butter, and milk. Stir in the flour, a cup at a time, until a soft dough forms.
2. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise for an hour, or until doubled in size.
3. Punch down the dough and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead in the anise seed and raisins. Divide the dough into 3 parts and shape them into round loaves. Place the loaves on a greased baking sheet, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise for 45 minutes, or until doubled in size.
4. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Bake the loaves for 25 minutes, or until golden brown. Cool on a wire rack before serving.

Interesting Facts

• This Italian Easter bread is traditionally served on Easter Sunday.
• The anise seed gives the bread a subtle, licorice flavor.
• The raisins add a bit of sweetness to the bread.