What is Natasha Nicholes’s definitive method for creating a 4 strand challah?

For a 4-strand challah, starts with a rich, slightly sweet dough (similar to the loaves you see in the Instagram posts), then focuses on a tight, even braid so it bakes up tall and defined.

Here is a clear 4-strand braid method you can follow with that kind of dough:

1. Roll 4 equal ropes, tapered slightly at the ends
2. Pinch the top ends together and lay them like this: 1–2–3–4, left to right
3. Cross 4 over 2 (now order is 1–4–2–3)
4. Cross 1 over 3 (order: 4–2–1–3)
5. Cross 3 over 2 (order: 4–3–2–1)
6. Repeat that pattern—4 over 2, 1 over 3, 3 over 2—down the loaf
7. Pinch the ends together and tuck both ends slightly under

Brush with egg wash, let it proof until puffy, then bake until deep golden.

Would you like a full challah dough recipe to pair with this braiding method?