Whole Wheat Braids

3 packages (1/4 ounce each) active dry yeast
3 cups warm water (110° to 115°)
1/2 cup sugar
3 eggs
1/3 cup vegetable oil
1 tablespoon salt
5 cups whole wheat flour
4 to 4-1/2 cups all-purpose flour

In a large bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water. Add the sugar, eggs, oil, salt and whole wheat flour; beat until smooth. Add enough all-purpose flour to form a soft dough. Turn onto a floured surface; knead until smooth and elastic, about 6-8 minutes. Place in a greased bowl; turn once to grease top. Cover and let rise in warm place until doubled, about 1 hour.

Punch dough down. Divide into nine pieces; shape each piece into a 14-in. x rope and braid three ropes together. Place in three greased 8-in. x 4-in. loaf pan. Cover and let rise until doubled, about 30 minutes. Bake at 350° for 40-45 minutes. Remove from pans to cool on wire racks. Makes 3 loaves.

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