Braided Bread

1 pkg. (2 1/4 t.) yeast
1 1/2 c. flour
1 t. salt
1/2 c. sugar
1 1/4 c. very warm water
1/2 c. soft margarine
2 eggs
3 1/2 c. flour
2 T. melted margarine
1 egg yolk
1 T. milk
Sesame seeds (optional)

Combine yeast, 1 1/2 c. flour, salt, and sugar. Pour in very warm water and beat until smooth. mix in margarine, eggs; add enough of remaining flour to make a soft dough (about 3 1/2 c.).

Place in greased bowl, brush top of dough with 2 T. melted margarine. cover with clean towel. Let raise in warm place until double in size, about 1 1/2 hours.

Punch down and knead again on floured surface. Divide dough into 3 equal pieces and roll each of these pieces into 'ropes' and braid them together. Cover and let loaf rise until double in size.

Preheat oven to 350. Mix egg yolk and milk, brush on loaf and sprinkle with sesame seeds if desired. Bake for 22 minutes or until loaf sounds hollow when thumped.

adapted from: Thomas 4th Ward cookbook