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:

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