Quick Greek Easter Bread

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Lightly grease a large baking sheet.

In a small dish, combine sugar, lemon zest and anise seeds.

Place the bread dough on the prepared baking sheet and press to flatten it to about 3 by 14 inches. Brush liberally with about half the melted butter. Sprinkle with the sugar mixture. Use a sharp knife to cut the dough lengthwise into three equal strips.

Braid by bringing the left strip over the center strip. Next, bring the right strip over the new center strip. Repeat braiding to the end. Shape the braid into a circle, pinching the ends together to seal. Brush the remaining melted butter. If using, push the eggs into the braid at even intervals, pushing down about 1 inch.

Bake until well-risen and rich golden-brown, 33 to 38 minutes. Carefully transfer to a rack to cool. Serve at room temperature.

NOTE: During the traditional Easter meal, Greek families eat braided bread with red hard-cooked eggs tucked in the folds to symbolize the blood and suffering of Christ upon the cross.