Let’s break down the process into easy-to-follow steps.

Step 1: Activate Yeast. In a small bowl, stir together the warm water and the yeast. Let the mixture stand until it is foamy, about 5 minutes. This shows that the yeast is alive and active.

Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook, combine the yeast mixture, warm milk, sugar, melted butter, and 2 of the beaten eggs. Beat on medium-low speed until combined, about 30 seconds.

Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients. Add the flour and salt and mix with a spatula until a shaggy dough forms.

Step 4: Knead Dough. Return the bowl to the mixer; increase the speed to medium and beat until the dough is smooth, elastic, and tacky, about 5 minutes. If you’re kneading by hand, turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes.

Step 5: First Rise. Transfer the dough to a large bowl lightly greased with nonstick cooking spray. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the dough rise at warm room temperature until it is doubled in size, 1 to 1 1/2 hours.

Step 6: Shape Dough. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and divide it into 3 equal portions (about 12 ounces each). Roll each of the portions into an 18- to 20-inch long rope.

Step 7: Braid Dough. Braid the ropes together, pinching the ends to seal and tucking them underneath.

Step 8: Prepare for Second Rise. Transfer the braid to a parchment-lined baking sheet. If you like, tuck dyed uncooked eggs into the braid, spacing them evenly apart.

Step 9: Second Rise. Cover the loaf loosely with plastic wrap and let it rise at warm room temperature until it has puffed, 30 to 45 minutes.

Step 10: Preheat Oven. During the last 30 minutes of proofing, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 11: Egg Wash and Bake. Uncover the loaf and brush it lightly with the remaining beaten egg. Bake the loaf until it is golden brown, 28 to 32 minutes.

Step 12: Cool. Slide the loaf and the parchment paper onto a wire rack to cool completely, about 1 1/2 hours.

Step 13: Make Glaze. In a medium bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and 2 tablespoons of milk until smooth. (Add a touch more milk, if needed to make a smooth, pourable glaze).

Step 14: Glaze and Decorate. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled loaf and decorate with sprinkles, if you like.

These steps are not too difficult to follow.