Twistree Bread

   * 2-3/4 - 3 c all-purpose flour

   * 1 package active dry yeast

   * 1/4 t baking soda

   * 1 c buttermilk

   * 1/4 cup shortening

   * 1/4 c sugar

   * 1 t salt

   * 1 egg

   * 2 T butter or margarine, softened

   * 1 T each red and green sugar

Combine 1-1/2 cups of the flour, the yeast, and the baking soda.  Heat buttermilk, shortening, sugar, and salt just until warm (115 - 120 degrees), stirring constantly.  Add to dry mixture; add egg.  Beat at low speed for 1/2 minute, scraping bowl.  Beat 3 minutes at high speed.  Stir in as much of the remaining flour as you can mix in with a spoon.  Onfloured surface, knead in remaining flour to make a moderately stiff dough.  Continue kneading till smooth (5 minutes).  Cover; let rest 10 minutes.  Halve the dough.  Roll one half into a 14x6" rectangle.  Spread with 1 T butter; sprinkle with red sugar.  Fold in half to make 14 x 3" rectangle.  Cut into fourteen 1"-wide strips.  Twist each dough strip; arrange them all on a greased baking sheet in a tree shape.  Repeat with remaining dough, butter, and green sugar.  Let rise 1 hour, bake at 375 for 15 minutes.  Cool on pan before removing to rack.