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Challah Bread: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe for Deliciousness

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  • Author: Amy
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes (including rising times)
  • Yield: 10-12 slices
  • Category: Bread
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Jewish
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Challah Bread recipe creates a soft, slightly sweet loaf with a golden-brown crust and tender interior, perfect for any occasion, from breakfast to dinner.


Ingredients

4 cups all-purpose flour

1 cup warm water (about 110°F or 43°C)

1/4 cup granulated sugar

1/4 cup vegetable oil

2 large eggs

2 teaspoons active dry yeast

1 teaspoon salt

1 egg (for egg wash)

Poppy seeds or sesame seeds (optional, for topping)


Instructions

  1. Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
  2. Combine wet ingredients: Whisk together vegetable oil and eggs. Add the frothy yeast mixture and mix well.
  3. Mix dry ingredients: In another bowl, combine flour and salt. Stir to distribute salt evenly.
  4. Combine the wet and dry mixtures: Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir until a shaggy dough forms, then turn out onto a floured surface.
  5. Knead the dough: Knead for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. The dough should be soft and slightly tacky but not sticky.
  6. First rise: Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
  7. Shape the dough: Punch down the dough and divide it into 3 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope.
  8. Braid the dough: Braid the three ropes together and pinch the ends to secure. Place the braid on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  9. Second rise: Cover the braided dough and let rise for 30-45 minutes until puffed up.
  10. Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  11. Apply egg wash: Beat the remaining egg and brush over the top of the loaf. Optionally, sprinkle poppy or sesame seeds.
  12. Bake: Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown and hollow when tapped on the bottom.
  13. Cool: Let the bread cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes before slicing.

Notes

For a sweeter loaf, add honey or cinnamon to the dough.

For a raisin challah, add raisins or dried cranberries before braiding.

For a vegan version, substitute eggs with flax eggs and use plant-based oil.


Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 180
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 160mg
  • Fat: 6g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg