Ingredients
- 4 1/2 cups of flour
- 2 tablespoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup of butter
- 1/2 cup of vegetable shorting
- 1 cup of sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup of milk
- 8 hard boiled eggs( color them with Easter egg colors and let dry)
Preparation
Step 1
Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
In a bowl combine flour, baking powder and salt. Set aside.
In a mixing bowl on medium speed, mix butter, eggs, sugar, shortening and vanilla extract until creamy. Reduce speed to low, and gradually add flour mixture and 1/2 cup of milk just until combined.
Divide dough in three pieces. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight.
Divide dough into 8 portions. Cut in two 4 " strips and braid in a spiral to make baskets, leaving a small opening in the middle.
Place the baskets on a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper.
Place colored eggs in the center of the baskets. Brush baskets with egg wash. Bake for 20 minutes until golden brown.
OPTIONAL: Brush baked baskets with a confectioners sugar glaze, and sprinkle with colored-candies.
Makes 8 baskets.