Tsoureki (Orthodox Easter sweet bread)

Ingredients

• 225 grams unsalted butter, room temperature
• 1 3/4 cup sugar
• 6 eggs, room temperature
• 3/4 cup fresh squeezed orange juice
• Zest of one orange
• 2 1/2 cup 2% milk, warm
• 3/4 teaspoon pure anise extract
• 3/4 teaspoon mastic
• 3/4 teaspoon mehlapi
• 3/4 cup lukewarm water
• 2 tablespoons dry quick active yeast
• 1/4 teaspoon sugar
• 8-9 cups all-purpose flour + extra for dusting
• 1 cup sliced almonds
• 1/4 cup sesame seeds (optional)
• 3 egg yolks
• 3 tablespoons milk