Golden Sesame Braids

Ingredients:
- 2 packages (1/4th ounce each) active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup of warm water
- 1 and 1/2 cup of warm milk
- 1/4 cup of shortening
- 1/4 cup of sugar
- 1 tbs. salt
- 3 eggs
- 7 and 1/2 cups of flour
Topping:
- 1 egg
- 1 tbs. cold water
- 2 tbs. sesame seeds
Directions:
1. In a large bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water. Add the milk, shortening, sugar, salt, eggs, and 4 cups flour; beat until smooth. Stir in enough remaining flour to form a soft dough.
2. Turn onto a floured surface; knead until smooth and elastic, about 6-8 minutes. Place in a greased bowl, turning once to grease top. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about an hour.
3. Punch dough down. Turn into a lightly floured surface; divide in half. Divide each portion into thirds. Shape each piece into a 12 inch rope. Place three ropes on a greased baking pan and braid; pinch ends to seal and tuck under. Repeat with remaining dough. Cover and let rise until doubled, about 45 minutes.
4. Beat egg and cold water; brush over braids. Sprinkle with sesame seeds. Bake at 350 F. for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from pans to wire racks to cool.