Slovenian Easter Bread - Velikonocni Kruhki Recipe

Directions:

1. Mix together the yeast, milk and 2 tbl sugar in a small bowl and let stand until bubbly, about 10 minutes.
2. In a large bowl or stand mixer, place 2 1/2 c flour, yeast mixture, cardamom, confectioners' sugar, butter, vanilla and salt. Combine to make a soft dough.
3. Add the citron, lemon juice and zest, ground almonds and raisins, mixing well.
4. Knead for 10-15 minutes by hand or 5-7 minutes by machine. Add the remaining 1/2 cup flour if necessary, so that the dough is not sticky.
5. Form dough into a large bowl and let it rise, covered, until doubled. (Doughs rich in butter can take longer to rise, so be patient).
6. Punch down and knead for two minutes on a lightly floured surface.
7. Heat oven to 350 deg.
8. Form 10-12 balls from the dough and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
9. Brush the tops of the dough balls with the egg wash and bake 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.