In a small bowl, mix the yeast with the warm water and 1 Tbsp sugar and let it sit for 5 minutes.

Meanwhile, in a saucepan, heat the milk, butter, vegetable oil, 2⁄3 cup sugar, vanilla extract and lemon zest on medium-low.

Stir until the sugar is dissolved. Remove from heat. The temperature should be lukewarm. If it is hot, let it sit to cool down.

Pour the flour into the large mixing bowl. Make a well in the middle with your fingers.

Pour the yeast mixture into the well and mix.

Add the mixture from the saucepan and mix with your hands or a mixing machine.

Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well in between.

Remove the dough from the bowl and knead with your palms until you have a smooth ball.

Place the dough back into a bowl and sprinkle it with a tiny bit of flour. Let the dough rest for an hour, or until it doubles in size.

Divide the dough into ten equal pieces. Each ball is one Weckmänn, or person.

Create a head, a body, two hands and feet and place them onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Leave about 2 inches of space between them so they can stretch their arms and legs!

Let the Weckmänner rest for 30 minutes.

Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F.

Place the egg yolk and 2 Tbsp of milk or cream in a small bowl and mix them together with a fork. Brush this egg wash on top of your Weckmänner to make them shine!

Have fun making eyes and clothes with dried raisins, cranberries or nuts.

Bake the Weckmänner for 15-20 minutes, or until they become golden in color. Let cool and enjoy!