SPRING BUNNY BREAD WITH DIP IN TUMMY

Steps:

• 1. Cut a fourth off of one loaf of dough; shape into a pear to form head. For body, flatten remaining portion into a 7x6" oval; place on a greased baking sheet. Place head above body. Make narrow cuts, about 3/4" deep, on each side of head for whiskers. Cut second loaf into 4 equal portions. For ears, shape 2 portions into 16" ropes; fold in half. Arrange ears with open ends touching head. Cut a third portion of dough in half; shape into a 3 1/2" oval for back paws. Cut two 1" slits on top edge for toes. Position on each side of body at bottom. Divide fourth portion of dough into 3 pieces. Shape two pieces into 2 1/2" balls for front paws; shape the remaining piece into two 1" balls for cheeks and one 1/2" ball for nose. Place paws on each side of body at top of body. Place cheeks and nose on face. Add raisins for eyes and almond for teeth. *You can secure cheeks and nose with pieces of toothpick to hold in place.
• 2. You can also use a halved white jelly bean instead of the almonds if desired. *Do not use the jelly bean though until just before serving, or it will melt a little and get grainy. (So place the teeth on just before serving.) Brush dough with melted butter or spray with butter-flavored vegetable spray. Cover and let rise for about 30-35 minutes or til doubled. Brush with beaten egg. *Sprinkle lightly with a little salt if desired. Bake at 350º for 25-30 minutes til golden brown. Remove to a wire rack to cool. Place bread on a lettuce-lined 16x13" tray. Cut a 5"x4" oval in center of body. Hollow out bread leaving a shell. Cut bread into cubes for dipping. Line hole in tummy with lettuce leaves, fill with dip. Surround entire bunny with bread cubes, fresh veggies and cheese and crackers for dipping.