Babka

Directions

1. 1
   Combine 2 cups of the flour, the yeast, lemon peel and cinnamon.
2. 2
   Heat together milk, sugar, butter and 1/4 teaspoon salt just until warm (115° to 120°), stirring constantly.
3. 3
   Add to dry mixture; add egg yolks.
4. 4
   Beat at low speed of electric mixer for 1/2 minute, scraping bowl.
5. 5
   Beat 3 minutes at high speed.
6. 6
   By hand, stir in raisins and enough of the remaining flour to make a moderately stiff dough.
7. 7
   Knead on floured surface until smooth (5 to 8 minutes).
8. 8
   Shape in ball.
9. 9
   Place in greased bowl; turn once. Cover; let rise until double (1 1/2 to 1 3/4 hours).
10. 10
    Punch down. Sprinkle almonds in well-greased 10-inch fluted tube pan.
11. 11
    Shape dough in 8-inch ball.
12. 12
    Make hole in center of dough, stretching it to fit over pan center.
13. 13
    Place in pan, fitting tube through hole. Cover; let rise until double (about 1 hour).
14. 14
    Bake at 350° for 40 to 45 minutes.
15. 15
    Makes 1.