Houska Czech Christmas Braided Bread

Step 1: Make sponge and let proof

Step 2: Add butter to scalded hot milk

Step 3: Let cool

Step 4: Add sugar eggs salt and vanilla

Step 5: Add raisins and nuts

Step 6: Add flour 2 cups at a time mixing well after each addition until forming a soft dough

Step 7: On floured board knead dough 10 minutes(may need more flour it had up to 8 cups)

Step 8: Put in greased bowl and cover with damp cloth

Step 9: Let rise until double in size

Step 10: Punch down

Step 11: Divide dough into six equal balls

Step 12: Braid 3 of the rolls each (watch video on how to do this ,it's tricky)

Step 13: Preheat oven to 350 degrees F

Step 14: Place in greased Pam sprayed bread pans

Step 15: Let rise until doubled

Step 16: Bake in preheated 350 degree oven 35 minutes until done