Preparation:
Scald milk, stir sugar, salt and margarine. Cool to lukewarm.
Dissolve yeast in warm water. Add milk mixture and 3 cups unsifted flour; beat until smooth. Stir in enough additional flour (3 1/2 to 4 cups) to make a stiff dough.
Onto floured board, knead 8 to 10 minutes. Place in greased bowl; grease top of dough.
Cover, let rise until doubled, about 1 hour. Punch down and divide in four equal pieces.
Cut 1 piece in half and 1 piece in 14 pieces. Shape in balls. Place large balls on greased baking sheets for bodies. Place medium balls above for heads. Flatten slightly.
Pinch seams. Attach small balls for paws, noses, and ears. Cover and let rise until doubled, about 1 hour.
Make indentations in ears. Place raisins for eyes and belly buttons. Mix 1 egg and 1 tablespoon of water and brush on bears.
Bake at 400 degrees for 25 to 30 minutes. Cool. Kids love helping to make and eat them. Makes 2 bears. |
