Spice Bread

Heat milk to lukewarm (105°).

Stir in yeast and pinch of sugar.

Allow it to proof for 10 minutes or until begins to foam. Stir in eggs, melted butter, sugar, salt, spices and vanilla extract.

Add enough flour to make soft dough.

Turn dough out onto a floured board and knead until smooth and elastic, about 10 minutes.

Place in a greased bowl, turning to grease the top. Cover and allow to rise until doubled in volume, 1 1/2 to 2 hours. Divide dough into 4 pieces.

Roll each piece out into a 6-inch oval, about 1/2-inch thick.

Place the loaves on a greased baking sheet and leave to rise, covered, for 1/2 hour.

Preheat oven to 375°.

With your thumb, make indentations in the dough in decorative rows, then brush the loaves with beaten egg yolk.

Bake for 15 to 20 minutes until golden.

Makes 4 loaves.