Ingredients

Dough

  • 4½ tsp. yeast
  • 1½ cups warm water (105–115°F)
  • ⅓ cup sugar
  • ½ cup softened butter
  • 3 eggs, kept warm
  • 2 tsp. salt
  • ~5–8 cups flour

Egg wash

  • 1 egg yolk
  • 1 tsp. water

Method

  1. Mix yeast in ½ cup warm water with 1 tsp. sugar. Let sit 5–10 minutes until foamy.
  2. Mix 4 cups flour with sugar, salt, and butter using an electric mixer until it forms coarse crumbs.
  3. Add yeast mixture, remaining warm water, and eggs. Beat for ~3 minutes.
  4. Slowly stir in just enough flour to form a soft, slightly sticky dough.
  5. Cover with plastic wrap and let sit 5 minutes.
  6. Turn out onto a lightly floured surface and knead 10 minutes until smooth and satiny.
  7. Put in an oiled bowl, turning to coat all sides. Cover with plastic wrap and a dish towel. Let rise until doubled, 1–2 hours.
  8. Punch down and knead a few times. Repeat the rise once more.
  9. Cut into 6 pieces. Cover loosely with plastic wrap and rest 10 minutes.
  10. Roll each piece into a long strip.
  11. Braid, lightly oil, and cover loosely. Let rest 45 minutes.
  12. Brush with egg wash.
  13. Bake at 375°F for 40–45 minutes until deep golden brown.