In lg bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water. Add the milk, butter, sugar, salt, and flour to form a stiff dough.

Place in a greased bowl, turning once to grease top. Cover and let rise in a wa place until doubled in size, about 1 hour.

Punch down dough. Turn onto a lightly floured surface, divide into four portions. Cut one portion in half; shape into balls. Cut another portion into 14 pieces, shape into balls.

To form bear body, place each lg ball in the center of a greased baking sheet. Place a medium ball above body for head; flatten slightly. Place two small balls on each side of head for ears. Place one small ball in the center of head for nose, and four small balls around body for arms and legs. Cover and let rise until doubled, about one hour.

With a sharp knife or scissors, cut slits for ears, eyes, nose, and belly button. Insert raisins into slits. Beat egg and cold water; brush over dough.

Bake at 350 for 25_30 min. or until golden brown. Remove from pans to wire to cool. If desired, tie a bow around bear's neck with ribbon.

Yield : 2 loaves