Larry'S Christmas Bread

Directions

1. 1
   Dissolve yeast in warm water; let stand 5 minutes.
2. 2
   Combine warm milk, sugar, salt and lemon rind in a bowl; mix well.
3. 3
   Cut butter into flour with a pastry blender in a large bowl until mixture resembles coarse meal.
4. 4
   Add yeast mixture and egg to milk mixture; mix well.
5. 5
   Cover and let rise in a warm place 1 hour and 15 minutes or until doubled.
6. 6
   Punch down.
7. 7
   Add raisins, cherries and almonds.
8. 8
   Knead dough until smooth and elastic.
9. 9
   Divide dough into 3 portions.
10. 10
    Roll each into 20-inch ropes.
11. 11
    Place side by side on greased baking sheet; braid.
12. 12
    Tuck ends under to seal. Cover, let rise 30 minutes or until doubled.
13. 13
    Brush top with 1 egg yolk and 1 tablespoon water.
14. 14
    Bake at 350° for 40 to 45 minutes. Cool and drizzle with glaze.