1. In a small bowl combine warm milk around 37°C or 98°F and melted butter.

2. Add yeast and gently mix until it dissolves.

3. In a large mixing bowl whisk together sugar egg and 250g or 2 cups of flour until smooth.

4. Gradually add milk mixture whisking continuously until a sticky dough forms.

5. Knead dough for 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.

6. Cover with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm place for about 40 minutes or until it has doubled in size.

7. Divide dough into two equal portions and shape each into a long rope.

8. Cut into 45 equal pieces and roll each into a ball.

9. Place balls onto baking sheets lined with parchment paper leaving about 2.5 cm or 1 inch of space between each.

10. Cover with a clean cloth and let them rise for another 30 minutes.

11. Preheat oven to 225°C or 435°F.

12. Use a sharp knife or a pastry brush to create a cross on top of each ball.

13. Gently brush tops with a beaten egg and sprinkle with poppy seeds.

14. Bake bread in the middle rack of oven for about 10 minutes or until golden brown.