2 pkgs. active dry yeast
1/2 c. warm water
5 1/2 c. flour
1/2 c. butter, softened
1 1/4 c. milk
2 eggs
1/2 c. sugar
2 tsp. salt

Dissolve yeast in water in large mixer bowl. Add milk, eggs, 2 1/2 cups of the flour, the butter, sugar and salt. Blend 30 seconds on low speed, scraping sides and bottom of bowl. Beat 2 minutes on medium speed. Stir in remaining 3 cups flour. (Dough should remain soft and slightly sticky.) Knead 5 minutes or about 200 turns on lightly floured board. Shape as desired. Let rise in warm place (85 degrees) until double, about 1 hour. (Dough is ready to bake if slight dent remains when touched.) Heat oven to 375 degrees. When using self- rising flour, omit baking powder and salt.