Italian Easter Sweet Bread

Ingredients

• 6 1/2 tablespoons water (lukewarm) ((100 grams))
• 1 teaspoon honey (or granulated sugar)
• 1 1/4 teaspoon active dry yeast
• 3 1/4 cups bread flour ((424 grams))
• 4 3/4 tablespoons granulated sugar ((60 grams))
• 1 tablespoon cream
• 2 large eggs (room temperature)
• zest 1 lemon
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/3 cup butter (soft) ((75 grams))
• 3/4 cup raisins* ((100 grams))
• 3 tablespoons water (40g)
• 1 3/4 tablespoons granulated sugar (20g)

Instructions

1. 1

   In the mixing bowl mix the water and honey then sprinkle the yeast on top, let sit 10 minutes then stir to combine.

2. 2

   With the dough hook attachment start to knead, add the flour, sugar and cream, continue to knead, then add the eggs one at a time, be sure to combine well before adding the 2nd egg, add the zest and salt knead to combine, add the butter a little at a time, continue to knead for 5-6 minutes. The dough should be smooth, elastic and not sticky. (If after 7-8 minutes it is still sticky then add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time).

3. 3

   Move the dough to a lightly floured flat surface and form into a ball, place it in a lightly greased bowl turning to cover lightly with oil, cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm draft free area for 1-2 hours or until doubled in bulk.

4. 4

   Move the dough to a flat surface and knead in the drained raisins. Place again in the greased bowl cover and let rise for an hour.

5. 5

   Form the dough into desired shape, place in a parchment paper lined pan (high cake or loaf pan), cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and let rise until doubled approximately 1-2 hours.

6. 6

   Pre-heat the oven to 350F (180C).

7. 7

   Brush the top of the loaf with milk, make a cross on top and bake for approximately 55-70 minutes (bread is done when the internal temperature is 190F/88C). Immediately remove from the pan and let cool on a wire rack. While still warm brush with the sugar syrup. Let cool completely and serve. Enjoy!

8. 8

   --- SUGAR SYRUP ---

9. 9

   In a small pot add the water and sugar and heat on medium/low for approximately 2-3 minutes.