Babka

http://www.world-recipes.info/poland-polish/babka.html

Yields 12 servings.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/3 cup shortening
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 package active dry yeast
• 1/4 teaspoon dried lemon peel
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup raisins
• 1/4 cup chopped almonds

Directions:

• Scald milk.
• Add shortening, salt, and sugar; stir until melted.
• Cool to lukewarm.
• Add yeast to water; stir until dissolved.
• Add to lukewarm milk mixture; mix well.
• Beat eggs; add with lemon peel to milk mixture.
• Add flour; beat until smooth.
• Cover; let rise about 6 hours.
• Punch down.
• Add raisins; beat until smooth and elastic.
• Generously grease brioche pan; sprinkle bottom with almonds.
• Pour dough into pan.
• Let rise, uncovered, about 20 minutes.
• Bake in 425F oven 20 minutes.
• Unmold immediately.