| Preparation: |
Stir yeast into water heated to 110°.
When mixture is bubbly, transfer yeast mixture, 3 eggs, 2 yolks, oil and honey to mixing bowl with dough hook attachment. Add flour, sugar and salt.
Knead dough 10 minutes on medium speed, then move to large, lightly oiled bowl and cover. Dough will be slightly sticky; do not add extra flour. Keep warm until double in size. Punch dough down and let double again.
Place dough on lightly floured work surface, divide in half, then divide each half into thirds. You now have 6 strands, enough for two three-braid loaves or one six-braid loaf. Braid dough strands, then place on papered cookie sheet pan. Brush with egg-wash mixture of 2 eggs and 1 yolk, a pinch of salt and a dash of water.
Spray plastic wrap with non-stick food spray and lightly cover loaves. Place in warm area and allow dough to double in size, about 35 to 45 minutes.
Remove plastic wrap and brush on remaining egg wash and and sprinkle on sesame or poppy seeds.
Bake on middle rack of 325° oven approximately 45 to 60 minutes or until golden brown and loaf tests for doneness by thumping the bottom (loaf should sound hollow). Remove from baking sheet and let cool on cooling rack. |
