There's A Bunny In My Bread

I was in charge of bringing a side dish last year to Easter. I wanted to try something a little different, so instead of a regular veggie tray, I added a bread bunny!

I think I made the cheeks a little too big and the teeth kind of slipped to the side. However, everyone else loved it, so I guess it turned out alright!

I do have some changes I would make if I made it next time though: Make sure the cheeks are pinched together so they don't separate. Add the nose right above the cheeks. I might try to tuck the top of the almonds under the cheeks to try to keep them in place. I would also use a smaller dip container so more of the belly shows.

You will need:

• Bread dough (I used frozen dough that had been thawed), 2-1lb. loaves
• 1 egg, beaten
• 2 raisins
• 3 almond slivers (Optional. I used them this time but I don't know that I use them again.)
• Dip, veggies, large platter, etc.

Directions:

1. Lightly grease a baking sheet or line with parchment paper.
2. Cut 1/4 off of one loaf of dough. Shape it into a pear-shape to form the head. Roll the rest of the dough out to form an flattened oval for the body. Place onto baking sheet. Place head at the top of the body.
3. On the head, cut 3-4 narrow cuts on each side to form the whiskers. The cuts should be about 3/4 inches deep.
4. Take the second loaf of dough and cut into 4 equal pieces.
5. Ears: Use two of the pieces and roll into 16-17 inch long ropes. Fold in half. Arrange with the ends touching the head.
6. Bottom feet: Take another piece and cut into half. Form into ovals for the bottom feet, about 3.5" ovals. Position at either side of the bottom of the body. Cut 2 slits to form toes, about 1 inch cuts.
7. Top feet: Take the remaining piece of dough and cut into 3 pieces. Form 2 pieces into balls about 2.5" big to form the top paws. Place on either side of the body, slightly below the neck. Cut two slits for toes, about 1 inch cuts.
8. The last piece of dough will be divided into two 2-inch sized balls for the cheeks and one 1/2-inch sized ball for the nose. Place in the middle of the head, next to the whiskers.
9. Add on the raisins for eyes and almonds for teeth.
10. Cover lightly with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm spot until doubled, usually 30-45 minutes. Brush the top lightly with the beaten egg.
11. Meanwhile, preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
12. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until golden brown, at 350 degrees F.
13. Remove and let cool completely on a cooling rack.
14. Arrange on a serving tray. If you want, cut a circle large enough to fit a dip container in the center of the belly. Place different veggies and things to dip around the bunny bread.