2 c. warm water
2 pkg. active dry yeast
1/2 c. sugar
1 tbsp. salt
1 c. warm mashed potatoes
1/2 c. butter, softened
2 eggs
7 1/2 c. flour
3 tbsp. butter

Sprinkle yeast over warm water in a large bowl. Add sugar, salt, stirring until dissolved. Add mashed potatoes, soft butter, eggs, and 3 1/2 cups flour with electric mixer at medium speed. Beat until smooth, about 2 minutes. Gradually add remaining flour, mixing with a wooden spoon or hands until dough is smooth and stiff enough to pull away from sides of bowl.

Melt 1 tablespoon butter and brush over dough. Cover with cloth and let stand until double in bulk. Knead on floured board until dough is smooth and elastic. Divide dough in half. Shape into a ball. Place in 9-inch round pan. Melt remaining butter. Brush over dough and let rise until doubled in size. With knife, make 3 cuts in surface of each loaf. Bake at 400 degrees for 40-45 minutes.