Kirsch and Dried Cherry Kugelhupf

Preparation

1. For cake:

   Step 1

   Combine first 3 ingredients in medium bowl. Let stand 15 minutes.

   Step 2

   Combine 1/4 cup warm water and pinch of sugar in bowl. Sprinkle yeast over; stir to dissolve. Let stand 10 minutes.

   Step 3

   Meanwhile, in large mixer bowl fitted with dough hook, beat 6 tablespoons butter, 3/4 cup sugar, yolks, peel, vanilla, almond extract and salt until well blended. Add yeast mixture, milk and 1 cup flour and beat until smooth. Beat in dried fruits and their soaking liquid. Gradually add remaining 2 1/2 cups flour and beat until very soft dough forms, about 6 minutes. Let stand 15 minutes.

   Step 4

   Butter 12-cup kugelhupf or Bundt pan with 2 tablespoons butter. Add almonds; tilt pan to coat bottom and sides. Spoon dough into pan. Cover with plastic and towel. Let dough rise in warm place until within 1 inch of top of pan, about 2 1/2 hours.

   Step 5

   Preheat oven to 350°F. Bake kugelhupf until tester inserted into center comes out clean, about 35 minutes. Let stand 10 minutes. Turn out onto rack; cool completely.

2. For glaze:

   Step 6

   Combine sugar and kirsch in bowl. Add milk; stir. Spoon over kugelhupf.