Sweet Almond Bread

Dough:
2/3 cup warm milk (70° to 80°)
1 egg yolk
1/4 cup butter or margarine, softened
1/4 cup applesauce, room temperature
1/3 cup sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
2-3/4 cups bread flour
2-1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast

Topping:
1/4 cup butter or margarine
3 tablespoons sugar
1 tablespoon milk
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/8 teaspoon salt
6 tablespoons sliced almonds

In bread machine pan, place dough ingredients in order suggested by manufacturer. Select dough setting (check dough after 5 minutes of mixing; add 1 to 2 tablespoons of water or flour if needed).

When cycle is completed, turn dough onto a floured surface and punch down. Divide dough in half. Roll each portion into a 6-in. circle and place on greased baking sheets.

Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 30 minutes. Meanwhile, for topping, combine butter, sugar, milk, cinnamon and salt in a small saucepan. Cook and stir over low heat until butter is melted. Simmer for 1 minute.

Remove from the heat; cool for 5 minutes. Make a 1/4-in. depression in the center of each loaf with the tip of a wooden spoon.

Brush with butter mixture and sprinkle with almonds. Bake at 375° for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown. Cool for 10 minutes. Serve warm. Makes 2 loaves.