1) 4 1/2 t active dry yeast
2) 1/2 c lukewarm water, see HINT
3) 1 1/2 c lukewarm whole milk (110 to 115)
4) 1/4 c sugar
5) 1 T salt
6) 3 large eggs, room temp
7) 1/4 c butter, soft
8) 7 - 7 1/2 c all purpose flour
9) 1 egg yolk
10) 2 T water
11) sesame seeds
Dissolve 1) in 2)
In large bowl mix with hand mixer yeast add 3) to 3 c of 8)
Stir in remaining flour about 4 c by hand to form a soft dough.
Use remaining 1/2 c flour for kneading.
Knead 6-8 min. Place in buttered bowl, cover and rise 1 1/2 to 2 hours till doubled.
Punch down.
Divide into 2 parts for 2 loaves. Or divide into 6 parts for 2 braids.
Shape, cover, rise 50 min.
Whisk 9) & 10)
Brush loaves, sprinkle with 11)
Bake 375 for 25-30 minutes.
HINT: to make lukewarm water mix 1 1/2 c cold water with 1/2 c boiling water.
