This is one of my favorite breads to make for the holidays. It makes an attractive and delicious addition to family gatherings. It's easy to make, but plan lots of time for the many risings.

Swedish Bread

1 C scalded milk
1 yeast cake
¼ C lukewarm water
3 ½ C all purpose flour
¼ C melted butter
1 egg, well beaten
1/3 C sugar
¼ t. salt
½ t. almond extract
1 egg yolk
slivered almonds or sesame seed (optional) (I always use the almonds)

Cool milk to lukewarm, add yeast dissolved in
water and ½ C of the flour. Beat well, cover, and
let rise. Add 2 C flour, beat well, and let rise.
Add butter, egg, sugar, extract, and enough
more flour to knead. Knead well and let rise.
Shape into braids by dividing into three thin
ropes of uniform size. Braid these into a loaf,
tucking ends under. Place on a buttered cookie
sheet. Brush with egg yolk that has been
slightly beaten with ½ t. of water. Let rise.
Sprinkle with almonds or sesame seed and bake
at 350° for about 20 minutes.