Barmbrack (Irish Bread)

Ingredients

• 2 packages active dry yeast
• 1/2 cup warm water
• 1 cup scalded lukewarm milk
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup butter, softened
• 2 eggs
• 2 teaspoons cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 5 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, divided
• 3/4 cup raisins
• 1/2 cup grated lemon and orange rind, mixed
• More soft butter
• Extra sugar
  
  

Instructions

1. Dissolve yeast in warm water in large bowl. Stir in milk, sugar, 1/4 cup butter, eggs, cinnamon, salt and 3 cups flour. Beat smooth.
2. Stir in raisins, rind and enough remaining flour to handle dough. Knead; place in greased bowl.
3. Let rise in warm place for 2 hours.
4. Punch dough down; divide in half. Place in greased pans; brush with butter.
5. Let rise until doubled, 50 to 60 minutes.
6. Bake at 350 degrees F for 40 to 45 minutes.
7. Brush with more butter and sprinkle with sugar.