Ingredients :

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1 kg (2.2 lb.) sifted flour
2 tsp. fine salt
3 whole eggs
250 g (9 oz.) sugar
150 g (5 oz.) warm butter
3 tbsp. crème fraîche
250 ml (1 cup) warm water
50 g (2 oz.) fresh baker's yeast
120 ml (1/2 cup) milk
2 tbsp. eau-de-vie
1 tbsp. orange flower water

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Method :

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1. In a bowl, combine the yeast with the warm milk and let proof in a warm place for about 10 minutes.
2. In another bowl, arrange the flower in a well and add the ingredients. Add the water a little at a time. Mix everything together, beating lightly, then knead by hand until the dough no longer sticks to your fingers.
3. Form the dough into a ball, flour lightly and place in a dish; cover with a cloth and let rise for 3 hours in warm draft-free place.
4. Grease and flour a baking sheet. Divide the dough into thirds and form into three long "sausages," the traditional shape for the bread.
5. Place on the baking sheet and let rise again for about 1 hour.
6. Glaze the surface by brushing with an egg beaten with a spoonful of milk.
7. Bake in a 180° C (350° F) oven for 25 minutes.
8. Make a lengthwise cut down the top of the bread with a knife. Continue baking for 20 minutes longer. Let cool and enjoy!