Almond Bread

Crumble yeast and dissolve in 100 ml (approximately 1/2 cup) lukewarm milk. Combine flour, salt, sugar and ground almonds in a large bowl. Create a well in the center and add yeast mixture. Cover yeast mixture with flour, cover bowl and let sit for 15 minutes. 

Add chopped almonds, butter, eggs and lemon zest to batter. Using a dough hook or hands, knead dough very well on a lightly floured surface. Return to bowl, cover with a cloth and let rise in  warm place for about 1 hour in a warm place, until dough doubles in volume.

Vigorously knead dough on work surface, add flour as needed. Divide dough 3 equal pieces and form ropes. Braid ropes, as desired, place on a baking sheet and let rise again for 15 minutes.

Preheat the oven to 180°C (approximately 350°F). 

Put bread in oven and bake for 60-80 minutes. Brush milk onto bread while baking, if desired.