Recipe For St Joseph Bread

Ingredients

• 4 cups all-purpose flour, sifted
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
• 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon anise seeds (optional but traditional for aroma)
• Zest of 1 lemon (for a subtle citrus note)
• 1/2 cup chopped candied fruit (for sweetness and traditional flair)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract