Challah Bread

Directions

1. 1
   In saucepan, combine milk, butter and sugar; heat to 110 degrees.
2. 2
   Remove from heat.
3. 3
   Stir in yeast and cool 10 minutes.
4. 4
   Pour mixture into large bowl; beat and add flour and salt.
5. 5
   knead.
6. 6
   Cover and let rise 1 hour.
7. 7
   Punch down and divide dough in half.
8. 8
   Roll each half into a 9x13 in rectangles.
9. 9
   Cut each rectangle lengthwise into 3 strips, braid 3 strips together and transfer to separate greased baking sheet.
10. 10
    Let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
11. 11
    Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
12. 12
    In small bowl, beat 1 egg.
13. 13
    Brush loaves with egg and then sprinkle poppy seeds evenly over both loaves.
14. 14
    Bake 25 to 30 minutes or until golden brown.
15. 15
    Bread should sound hollow when tapped.