Holiday Breakfast Braid

1. 1

   In a large bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water. Add the milk, sugar, butter, eggs, salt, orange zest, cardamom, mace and 2 cups flour. Beat until smooth. Stir in enough remaining flour to form a soft dough.

2. 2

   Turn onto a floured surface; knead until smooth and elastic, about 6-8 minutes. Place in a greased bowl, turning once to grease top. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1 hour.

3. 3

   Meanwhile, for filling, in a small bowl, combine the butter, sugar, extract and orange zest; set aside. Toss the fruit and almonds with flour; set aside.

4. 4

   Punch dough down. Turn onto a lightly floured surface. Roll into a 30x9-in. rectangle. Spread filling to within 1/2 in. of edges; sprinkle with fruit mixture. Roll up jelly-roll style, starting with a long side; pinch seam to seal. With a sharp knife, cut roll in half lengthwise.

5. 5

   Place on a greased

6. 6

   ; gently twist the ropes together cut side up. Coil into a circle; tuck ends under. Cover and let rise until doubled, about 1 hour.

7. 7

   Bake at 325u00b0 for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from pan to a wire rack to cool. In a small bowl, combine orange butter ingredients. Refrigerate until serving. Serve with coffee cake.

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.