Midwest America 1896 Inspired Bread

1In a bowl, combine warm milk (1 cup), sugar (¼ cup), and yeast. Let it sit for about 10 minutes until frothy.

2Add melted butter, egg (1), cinnamon, nutmeg (¼ tsp), allspice (¼ tsp), cloves (¼ tsp), and salt (½ tsp) to the yeast mixture. Mix well.

3Gradually add flour to the mixture, stirring until a dough forms.

4Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

5Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

6Punch down the dough and knead in raisins and chopped walnuts (¼ cup) if desired.

7Shape the dough into a loaf and place it in a greased loaf pan. Cover and let it rise for another 30 minutes.

8Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

9Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

10Remove from the oven and cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.