Vasilopita

Directions

1. 1
   In a small bowl, stir together 1/2 cup milk, yeast and 1/2 cup flour.
2. 2
   Cover and let rise in a warm place until nearly doubled in size, about 1 hour.
3. 3
   Place 6 cups flour in a large bowl.
4. 4
   Make a well in the center and add contents of small bowl, salt, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, 3/4 cup melted butter, 3 eggs and 2 cups milk.
5. 5
   Mix thoroughly to make a thick dough.
6. 6
   Scoop the dough into a lightly greased 8x8 inch baking pan.
7. 7
   Brush dough with melted butter, cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 30 minutes.
8. 8
   Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
9. 9
   When dough has risen, insert a clean silver coin into the loaf.
10. 10
    Brush dough with beaten egg and sprinkle with chopped almonds.
11. 11
    Bake in preheated oven until golden brown, about 40 minutes.