Instructions: In large bowl, combine yeast and 1/2 C lukewarm (110 - 115F) water; let stand until foamy. Stir in 4 C flour, 1/2 C sugar and salt. With pastry blender, cut in butter until mixture is crumbly. Stir in yolks and milk. Beat until dough begins to pull from sides of bowl. Turn dough out onto lightly floured work surface; knead dough, incorporating any remaining flour, 1/4 C at a time, to prevent sticking, about 10 min or until smooth and elastic. Place in bowl coated with butter-flavored cooking spray.

Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in warm area 1 1/2 hrs or until doubled in bulk. Punch down dough. Divide into 3 pieces and shape each piece into an 18" long rope. Lay strips side by side and braid loosely, beginning in the middle and working to each end. Place on greased baking sheet, cover with towel and let rise 1 hr or until almost doubled in size. Heat oven to 350F. In bowl, whisk together egg and 1 Tbsp water. Brush bread with some of the egg mixture. Bake 30 min. Brush again with egg mixture. Bake 10 - 15 min more or until bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.

Work time: 30 min
Total time: 3 hrs, 45 min

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