Directions

1. In a small saucepan combine the butter and milk. Heat over medium heat until the butter melts. Remove from heat and whisk in the vanilla extract. Set aside to cool.
2. In a small bowl, whisk 1 tablespoon of sugar and water until the sugar dissolves. Sprinkle the yeast over the liquid and let sit for about 10 minutes until foamy.
3. In a large bowl, combine the rest of the sugar, 1 3/4 cups of the flour and salt. Add in the milk-butter mixture and yeast mixture and stir by hand until thick dough starts to form. Mix in the eggs. Add in the rest of the flour and continue to stir until a smooth but sticky dough forms. Shape into a ball in the bowl and cover with plastic wrap. Set aside in a warm place and let the dough rise until doubled, about 1-2 hours.