Ingredients

• 2 (1/4 ounce) packages active dry yeast
• 1 1/2 cups warm water, divided (110 degrees to 115 degrees)
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar
• 3 eggs, beaten
• 1 cup applesauce
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 8 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups peeled diced apples
• 1 1/2 cups raisins
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons cornmeal
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1 tablespoon sugar

Instructions

1. In a small bowl, combine yeast, 1/2 cup water and sugar; set aside. In a large bowl, combine eggs, applesauce, honey, oil, salt and remaining water; mix well.

2. Stir in yeast mixture.

3. Gradually add enough flour to form a soft dough. Knead on a floured surface until smooth and elastic, about 10 minutes.

4. Place dough in a greased bowl, turning once to grease top. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1 hour. Punch down and turn over in bowl.

5. Cover and let rise 30 minutes. In a small bowl, combine apples, raisins and lemon juice. Divide dough into three parts; knead one-third of the apple mixture into each part.

6. Shape each into round flat balls. Place each in a greased 8-in. round baking pan that has been sprinkled with cornmeal. Cover and let rise until doubled, about 1 hour. Brush each loaf with egg and sprinkle with sugar.

7. Bake at 350°F for 30 to 35 minutes or until brown sounds hollow when tapped.