5 1/2 to 6 c. bread flour
2 pkg. dry yeast
1 1/2 c. buttermilk
1/4 c. butter
1/4 c. sugar
3 eggs
1 egg yolk

Combine 2 1/2 cups flour and yeast. Heat buttermilk, butter, sugar and 1 teaspoon salt until warm (115 degrees). Add to dry ingredients with the 3 eggs, beat until moistened. Beat 3 minutes more. Stir in as much remaining flour as you can with a spoon.

On floured surface, knead enough remaining flour to make a moderately stiff dough, 5-8 minutes. Shape into ball, cover and let rise until double. Punch down, divide in half. Cover and let rest 10 minutes. Divide each half into thirds.

Shape each into 14 inch ropes by rolling with hands. Shape into braids, pinching ends so they don't unravel. Place each on greased baking sheet. Cover and let rise 30 minutes.

Combine yolk and 1 tablespoon water, brush over loaves. Sprinkle with sesame seed, if desired. Bake in 375 degree oven for 25 minutes. Makes 2 loaves.