Chrístopsomo (χριστόψωμο)

Instructions

1. In a bowl, dissolve the yeast in the lukewarm water with the honey and leave for 10 minutes until it foams.
2. Mix the flour, salt, cinnamon and clove in a large bowl, then add the yeast water and olive oil.
3. Knead for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic, then work in the chopped walnuts and raisins if using.
4. Let it rise for 1 to 1½ hours somewhere warm, until the dough has doubled in size.
5. Shape into a large round ball, place it on a tray, then score a shallow cross on the top.
6. Decorate with small pieces of dough shaped as leaves or crosses, and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
7. Brush with the egg glaze and bake at 180 °C for 40 to 45 minutes, until the bread sounds hollow.
8. As soon as it comes out of the oven, brush the surface with honey and let it cool on a rack.