Steps

• Warm 1/2 cup of milk and dissolve 1 teaspoon of sugar in it, then sprinkle the yeast.

  Let it rest and activate for 5-10 minutes, or until the yeast foams.

  Meanwhile, oil a bowl where you will let the dough rise.

  Whisk together flour, salt, and remaining sugar in a large bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer.

  Then add the yeast mixture, eggs, softened butter, remaining milk, and vanilla.

  Mix to combine the ingredients.

  The dough will be moist and sticky.

  Knead in the mixer or bowl for 4-5 minutes.

  Form a ball with the dough and place it in the oiled bowl.

  Cover with a damp cloth and let rise in a warm place for an hour to 90 minutes.

  Deflate the dough and transfer it to a lightly floured surface.

  Divide the dough in half.

  Shape one half into a disk and put it at the bottom of a pan.

  Divide the remaining dough into 4 pieces: 1 piece for the cross and 3 pieces for the braid.

  For the braid: create 3 ropes. Braid them and arrange over the outer edges of the dough in the pan.

  The cross: separate into two pieces, one slightly longer than the other, and create a cross pattern placing it in the center of the dough.

  Cover and let rise until almost doubled.

  Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 350°F.

  Brush with a beaten egg before baking.

  Then bake for 40-50 minutes, or until the bread is golden and well-cooked.

  Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes.

  And remove from the pan, place on a rack to cool completely.