5-6 c. flour
2 pkg. dry yeast
1/4 c. sugar
1 1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 c. butter (1 stick) at room temperature
1 1/2 c. VERY hot water
2 eggs

In large bowl, put 2 cups flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Blend. Add butter, then hot water. Beat for 2 minutes. Add eggs and 1 cup flour. Beat for 1 minute. Beat in flour, 1 cup at a time, until dough leaves side of bowl. Put out on floured board. Knead 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover with Saran Wrap and towel. Let rest 20 minutes.

Punch down dough. Divide for 2 loaves. Divide each part in 4 parts. Make braid of 3 and use 4th piece for decorative braid.

Put in well greased pan. Brush top with oil. Allow to rise for 1 hour or cover and refrigerate up to 24 hours. (Let rise for 2 hours if refrigerated.) brush top with beaten egg yolk. Bake at 375 degrees for 30-40 minutes.