The Best Challah Bread Recipe

5 from 1 vote

Hailing from Jewish tradition, Challa Bread has gained popularity worldwide for its soft interior and golden-brown exterior.

Course Appetizer, Breakfast, Side Dish

Cuisine American

Keyword Bread, Challah Bread

Prep Time 20

Cook Time 30

2 50

Total Time 3 40

Servings People

Calories 76kcal

Equipment

1 Mixing bowl
1 Baking sheet

Ingredients

4 cups All-purpose flour: This provides the structure and texture of the bread.
2 ¼ tsp Of active dry yeast: Responsible for the bread's rise and fluffy texture.
¼ cup Of granulated sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness to the bread.
1 ½ tsp Of salt: Balances the flavors and enhances the taste.
2 large Eggs: Provides moisture and richness to the dough.
2 large Egg yolks: Adds richness and a golden color to the bread.
½ cup Of vegetable oil: Keeps the bread moist and tender.
¾ cup Of warm water: Activates the yeast and helps with the dough's elasticity.
Optional toppings: Sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or coarse salt for garnishing the bread.

Instructions

In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast and a pinch of sugar in warm water. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy and activated.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture, eggs, egg yolks, and vegetable oil.
Mix the ingredients with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms. Then, transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead it for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours or until it doubles in size.
Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Divide the dough into three equal portions.
Roll each portion into a long rope, approximately 16-18 inches in length. Ensure that the ropes are of equal thickness.
Pinch the ends of the three ropes together, then braid them by crossing the right rope over the center rope, then the left rope over the new center rope. Continue this pattern until the entire loaf is braided.
Tuck the ends under the loaf and transfer it onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover it with the kitchen towel and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes until it puffs up.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a small bowl, beat an egg with a splash of water. Brush the egg wash over the loaf, then sprinkle sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or coarse salt on top for added flavor and visual appeal.
Bake the challah bread for 25-30 minutes or until it turns golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.

Notes

Tips and tricks for perfecting your challah bread recipe

While making challah bread is a straightforward process, a few tips and tricks can help you achieve perfection:

Measure the flour accurately: Use a kitchen scale or spoon the flour into the measuring cup and level it off with a straight edge. Avoid packing the flour, as it can lead to a dense loaf.
Activate the yeast properly: Ensure that the water is warm, not hot, as high temperatures can kill the yeast. If the yeast doesn't froth after 5 minutes, start again with fresh yeast.
Knead the dough thoroughly: Proper kneading develops the gluten in the dough, resulting in a lighter and more airy bread. Knead until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
Allow enough time for rising: The dough needs sufficient time to rise and double in size. Find a warm spot in your kitchen or use the oven's proofing function to speed up the process.
Achieve an even braid: Roll the dough ropes evenly and ensure they're of the same thickness. This will help create an evenly braided loaf.
Experiment with toppings and fillings: While traditional challah bread is delicious on its own, you can add a twist by sprinkling sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or coarse salt on top. You can also get creative by adding fillings such as raisins, chocolate chips, or savory ingredients like garlic and herbs.
Brush with egg wash: Applying an egg wash before baking gives the challah bread a beautiful golden color and a glossy finish.

By following these tips and tricks, you'll be well on your way to mastering the art of making challah bread.

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