Mincemeat-Filled Braid

Directions

1. 1
   Dissolve yeast in warm water. In a large bowl, combine next six ingredients, yeast mixture and 1-1/2 cups flour; beat on medium speed 2 minutes. Stir in enough remaining flour to form a soft dough (dough will be sticky).
2. 2
   Turn onto a floured surface; knead until smooth and elastic, 6-8 minutes. Place in a greased bowl, turning once to grease the top. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1 hour.
3. 3
   Meanwhile, for filling, crumble mincemeat in a small saucepan; add water. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cook over medium-low heat until thickened, 20-25 minutes. Set aside; cool.
4. 4
   Punch down dough. Turn onto a lightly floured surface; divide into thirds. Roll each into a 14x4-in. rectangle. Spread a third of the filling down the center of each strip; bring the sides of each strip together over filling. Pinch seams to seal. Place strips, seam side down, on a greased
5. 5
   and braid. Pinch ends to seal; tuck under. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1 hour.
6. 6
   Preheat oven to 350°. Bake until golden brown, 20-25 minutes. Remove from pan to a wire rack to cool.
7. 7
   Combine icing ingredients; drizzle over braid.