In large bowl, combine milk, sugar, salt & butter. Cool to lukewarm.
Stir in 2 cups flour, add 2 eggs, mix well.Stir in yeast, and add enough remaining flour to make a soft, but not sticky, dough.
Turn onto a floured surface and knead until smooth and elastic, approximately 6 to 8 minutes.Place in greased bowl, turn once, let rise until double in size, 1 1/2 to 2 hours.
Punch down, divide in two pieces to make 2 loaves.Divide each piece into 3 portions, roll to elongate, and braid.Place on baking sheet lined with parchment paper.Leave plenty of space, there is significant oven spring.
Let braided loaves rise until double. This may take more than 1 hour.
Heat oven after 30 minutes of rising.A fully risen loaf can’t wait for the oven!
Beat together remaining 1 egg and 1 TB water to make egg wash.Brush top of loaves gently with egg wash for a shiny surface.May top with poppy seeds or sesame seeds.