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1
In a bowl, dissolve yeast in water. Add the milk, shortening, eggs, sugar, orange juice, orange zest, salt and 3 cups of flour; beat until smooth. Stir in enough remaining flour to form a soft dough.
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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.
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3
Punch dough down. Set aside 1 cup; divide remaining dough in half. On a lightly floured surface, roll each half into a 14x5-in. oval body. Shape a head at the top of each oval body (see Fig. 1). Place bodies on separate greased
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4
. Flatten slightly.
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5
Cut arms and skirt with sharp knife or kitchen scissors (see Fig. 2a). Form shoes using dough cut from skirt (Fig. 2b.). Roll six 1/8x8-inch strips from reserved dough. Plait three strips together, forming braid; cut in half. Place one braid on each side of head for hair.
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6
Use reserved dough to decorate clothing as show in photo and in Fig. 2c, including a stocking cap to place on head, covering tops of braids. With knife or scissors, cut out eyes, nose, mouth and dress decorations. Press raisins deep for eyes and buttons.
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7
Cut arms and legs (see Fig. 3a). Spread arms and legs apart (Fig. 3b.). To add clothing and details, refer to photo and Fig. 3c. Place arms in desired positions. Forms shoes by pinching dough.
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8
With small pieces of reserved dough, form a stocking cap and ears; press onto head. Roll out thin strips of dough and use these to trim clothing. Roll out two slightly thicker strips and tie together to form a scarf.
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9
With knife or scissors, make small cuts to form decorations in pants and sleeves. Cut out eyes, nose and mouth. For eyes and buttons, press the raisins firmly into dough. Cover and set aside.
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10
Cover both loaves and place in a warm spot to rise until almost doubled, about 30-45 minutes. Bake at 400u00b0 for 12-14 minutes or until golden brown. Meanwhile, combine spread ingredients and serve with warm bread.
