Bohemian Christmas Braid

Directions

1. 1
   Dissolve yeast in water.
2. 2
   Combine milk, sugar and shortening. Cool to lukewarm, add to yeast.
3. 3
   Beat in eggs and half the flour. Add lemon rind, mace, salt, raisins and nuts.
4. 4
   Stir in remaining flour.
5. 5
   Knead dough until smooth.
6. 6
   Place in greased bowl, cover and let rise until doubled (about 1 hour).
7. 7
   Divide dough equally in half and each half into thirds.
8. 8
   Roll out into long roll and make braid.
9. 9
   Shape into circle, pinching ends together.
10. 10
    Let rise until light.
11. 11
    Brush with mixture of 1 beaten egg yolk and 2 tablespoons milk before placing in oven.
12. 12
    Bake at 350° for 25 to 30 minutes.
13. 13
    Ice and decorate with maraschino cherries when cool. Makes 2 braids.