Step 1

Place bread flour, milk, eggs, sugar, butter, yeast, salt, and saffron in a bread machine in the order recommended by the manufacturer.

Step 2

Program the bread machine for the dough cycle; press "Start." Mix raisins into the dough by hand after the cycle is complete.

Step 3

Divide dough into 9 pieces. Roll each piece into a log 6 to 7 inches long. Pinch the ends of 3 logs together and form a 3-strand braid. Pinch ends together at the bottom of the braid. Repeat with remaining logs to make 2 more braided loaves.

Step 4

Transfer loaves to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, placing them several inches apart. Cover loosely with plastic wrap and let rise until doubled, about 30 minutes.

Step 5

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).

Step 6

Bake in the preheated oven until loaves are a light golden brown, about 15 minutes.