Braided Peppery Cheese Rolls

4-1/4 to 4-3/4 cups all-purpose flour
3 tablespoons sugar
2 packages (1/4 ounce each) active dry yeast
1-1/2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon coarsely ground pepper
1-1/2 cups milk
1/4 cup butter
2 eggs
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups flour, sugar, yeast, salt and pepper. In a saucepan, heat milk and butter to 120°-130°.

Add to dry ingredients; beat on medium speed for 2 minutes. Add 1 egg and 1/2 cup flour; beat 2 minutes longer. Stir in cheese and enough remaining 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, turning once to grease top. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 30 minutes.

Punch dough down. Turn onto a floured surface; cover and let rest for 15 minutes. Divide into 36 pieces. Shape each into a 6-in. rope.

Braid three ropes together. Pinch ends to seal. Repeat with remaining dough. Place on greased baking sheets. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 30 minutes.

Beat remaining egg; brush over braids. Bake at 375° for 15-17 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from pan to a wire rack to cool. Makes 1 dozen.