Garlic Herb Challah

We made this special bread a few weeks ago for a friend who just had a baby!

13/4 c. very warm water

2T. honey
1/2 c.olive oil

4 eggs

1 T. salt

8-81/2 c. flour

4 cloves garlic minced

1 tsp. dried basil

1 tsp. crushed rosemary

1 tsp. dried thyme

In a large bowl combine water, honey, yeast and spices and garlic. Let stand 10 min. Using a wooden spoon stir in eggs, oil and salt. Gradually stir in as much flour as you can. Turn dough on to floured surface. Knead in enough flour to make a moderately soft dough that is smooth and elastic. About 5-7 min. Shape dough into ball let rise for 1-1/2 hrs. Punch dough down turn out onto a lightly floured surface. Cover with a clean towel, rest 10min. Divide dough into 3 portions divide each portion into 3 parts totalling 9 portions. Gently roll each into a 24 inch rope. Braid three ropes at a time to make three ropes; shape each into a spiral loaf. Place braid onto baking sheets. Let rise 1/2hr.

In small bowl combine 3 T. melted butter,1tsp.basil,tsp.thyme,tsp. rosemary and 1 tsp. minced garlic. Brush over loaves. Bake in 350 oven. Bake 30-35 min. or till hollow when tapped. Immediately remove from pans and cool.

Makes 3 Large loaves, 16 servings each.