Instructions: 1. Add ingredients to bread machine pan according to manufacturers directions.

2. Select sweet or dough cycle.

3. At the end of the cycle, scrape the dough onto a board lightly coated with all-purpose flour. Divide dough into 3 equal pieces. If making a 1 1/2-pound loaf, roll each piece to form a rope about 12 inches long. For a 2-pound loaf, roll each piece to form a rope about 14 inches long. Lay ropes parallel about 1 inch apart on a buttered 14 x 17 inch baking sheet. Pinch ropes together at one end, braid loosely, then pinch braid end together.

4. Cover loaf lightly with plastic wrap and let stand in a warm place until puffy, about 35 minutes. Remove plastic wrap.

5. Beat 1 large egg yolk to blend with 1 tablespoon water. Brush braid with egg mixture.

6. Bake braid in a 350 F oven until golden brown, about 30 minutes. Cool on a rack at least 15 minutes before slicing. Serve hot, warm, or cool.

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