‘Delicious Easter Bread to Share on Your Table’

Ingredients:
4 cups flour
1/2 cup sugar
2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
1/2 tsp salt
3/4 cup warm milk (45°C)
1/4 cup melted butter
3 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 cup raisins or dried fruit 
Mini coloured eggs, for decoration (optional)
1 egg beaten with 1 Tbsp water (egg wash)
METHOD:
In a small bowl, combine the warm milk, a tsp of sugar, and the yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 mins until it becomes frothy.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract. Mix until a dough forms.
Knead the dough: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 10 mins, until it becomes smooth and elastic. If using, knead in the raisins or dried fruit.
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
Punch down the dough and divide it into three equal parts. Roll each part into a long rope and braid them together. If using coloured eggs, tuck them into the braid.
Place the braided dough on a greased baking tray lined with baking paper. Cover it with a damp cloth and let it rise for another 30-45 mins.
Preheat the oven to 175°C.
Brush the dough with the egg wash and bake for 25-30 mins, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Cool and serve: Let the bread cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.
Decorate with mini easter eggs (optional) Enjoy,