Buttermilk Braid

Directions

1. 1
   Warm buttermilk and add lemon juice, butter, honey and salt; heat until butter melts.
2. 2
   Then add raisins and remove from stove. Cool to lukewarm.
3. 3
   Sprinkle yeast over the surface of the liquid and let it rise for five minutes.
4. 4
   With a large wooden spoon, stir the yeast in gently and allow mixture to bubble.
5. 5
   Stir in 1 cup flour and then mix eggs.
6. 6
   Add 5 more cups of flour, one cup at a time.
7. 7
   Knead dough on a floured surface until it is firm and elastic.
8. 8
   Knead 10 minutes.
9. 9
   Transfer to a large, greased bowl, turning so that all sides are greased.
10. 10
    Cover and let rise for one hour, until doubled in bulk.
11. 11
    Punch down and knead for one or two more minutes.
12. 12
    Divide dough into four pieces, making 2 slightly larger.
13. 13
    Divide 2 large pieces into 6 pieces.
14. 14
    Braid 3 pieces each. Place the smaller braid on the larger ones.
15. 15
    Brush with egg.
16. 16
    Let rise for one hour.
17. 17
    Bake at 350° for 30 minutes until brown.