Onion-Sesame Casserole Bread

1 envelope active dry yeast
1/2 cup warm water
1/2 cup warm milk
3/4 cup (1 1/2 sticks) butter, cut into pieces and softened
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon salt
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 tablespoons butter, melted
3 tablespoons sesame seeds

1. In a large mixing bowl, sprinkle the yeast over the water and let dissolve. Add the milk, butter, eggs, salt, and 1 cup of the flour and beat till smooth. Add the remaining 2 cups flour and the onion and stir till well blended and smooth. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the dough rise in a warm area till doubled in bulk, about 1 hour.

2. Butter a deep round or oval 2-quart casserole. Stir the dough well, scrape into the prepared casserole, cover, and let rise again till doubled in bulk, about 40 minutes. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees.

3. Brush the top of the dough with the melted butter, sprinkle the sesame seeds over the top, and bake till golden, then cut into wedges.

Makes 1 loap; 5 to 8 servings