Instructions: In a large bowl, combine the sugar, salt, yeast, and flour. In a small saucepan, heat the milk and butter over medium heat until very warm (about 125 degrees). With a wooden spoon, gradually stir the warmed liquid into the dry ingredients, adding more flour by the tablespoon, if necessary, to make a soft dough. Turn dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead until smooth about 10 minutes. Shape the dough into a ball, and place in a large greased bowl. Brush lightly with olive oil, then cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 30 minutes. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees. Grease a large baking sheet.

In a small bowl, beat the egg and water until blended. Punch down the dough and place on the baking sheet. Shape into a 14-inch-long loaf. Brush the top of the bread with the egg mixture and sprinkle with sesame seeds. Cut two diagonal slashes on top of the loaf. Bake 25 to 30 minutes, or until the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. Cool on a wire rack.

NOTES : Makes one 14 inch loaf.

If you would like to email yourself the recipe for later use, or share the recipe with your friends or family, enter the email addresses below and this recipe will be emailed to you and others as well.