Moravian Christmas Loaf

Ingredients

• 3 cups milk, lukewarm
• 1/2 fresh yeast cake, softened in
• 1/4 cup water
• 6-8 cups flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup butter
• 1 cup sugar
• 1/2 lb raisins, cut
• 1/2 lb currant
• 1/4 lb candied citron peel, chopped
• 1/2 cup almonds, sliced

Directions

1. 1

   Add softened yeast to milk.

2. 2

   Add 3 cups flour, and salt; mix well.

3. 3

   Cover and let rise in a warm place overnight.

4. 4

   In the morning, heat the milk; add butter and stir until melted.

5. 5

   Combine with yeast mixture and add sugar, fruit and remaining flour; knead well until dough is no longer sticky (use more flour, if necessary).

6. 6

   Cover and let rise until double.

7. 7

   Shape into loaves, place in greased loaf pans and sprinkle with sliced almonds.

8. 8

   Let rise until doubled.

9. 9

   Bake at 375°F for 40 minutes.