Almond Brunch Loaf

Directions

Add ½ cup orange juice, egg, butter, salt, bread flour, sugar and yeast to a bread machine according to manufacturer’s directions.

Select dough cycle. When dough cycle is complete, remove dough from machine.

Cover and let rest for 10 minutes.

On a lightly floured surface, roll dough into a 24 x 8 rectangle.

In a small mixing bowl, stir together the almond filling, almonds, and orange peel.

Spread filling over dough to within ½ inch of the edges.

Fold dough loosely from a short side, making about eight 3 inch wide folds.

(This is similar to making a jelly roll, except you make folds 3 inch wide, instead of rolling it.)

Transfer to a lightly greased baking sheet.

On one of the long sides, make eleven 2½ inch; cuts from the edge toward the center at about ¾ inch intervals.

Flip every other strip of dough over to the alternate side.

Slightly twist each strip, exposing the filling.

(The loaf will look braided when you are done flipping and twisting!)

Bake in a 350℉ (180℃) oven for 25 to 30 minutes of until golden brown.

If necessary, cover loosely with foil during the last 5 to 10 minutes to prevent overbrowning.

Lightly brush the bread surface with orange juice.

Sprinkle with sugar.

Serve warm.