5 1/2 to 6 c. flour, bread flour
2 pkgs. dry yeast, active
1 1/2 c. buttermilk
1/4 c. butter
1/4 c. sugar
3 eggs
1 egg yolk
2 tsp. salt
1 tbsp. water
Sesame seeds

Combine 2 1/2 cups flour and yeast. Heat buttermilk, butter, sugar and 2 teaspoons salt until warm. Add to dry mixture with the 3 eggs. Beat until moistened. Beat 3 minutes more. Stir in as much remaining flour as you can with spoon. On floured surface knead in enough remaining flour as you can to make a stiff dough. Shape into ball; Cover; let rise. Punch down; divide in 1/2. Cover and let rest 10 minutes. Divide in thirds. Shape 2 braids on greased sheets using 3 ropes each. Cover, let rise 20 to 30 minutes. Combine egg yolk and 1 tablespoon water. Brush loaves then sprinkle sesame seeds. Bake for 25 minutes at 375 degrees.