Easy Homemade Challah Bread Recipe

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Challah is a special bread in Jewish cuisine, typically eaten on ceremonial occasions such as Sabbath and major Jewish holidays. This braided bread is made with eggs, which gives it a rich flavor and golden color. Whether you're celebrating a holiday or simply want to enjoy a delicious homemade bread, this challah recipe is easy to follow and yields a perfect loaf every time.

What is Challah?

Challah bread is more than just food; it's a symbol rich in tradition. The braiding represents love, truth, and peace, while the bread itself signifies sustenance and blessings. Unlike other bread recipes, challah uses eggs and often a touch of sweetness from honey or sugar, creating a soft, slightly sweet, and incredibly flavorful bread.

Ingredients You'll Need

Before you start baking, gather these ingredients:

  • 4 cups of all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
  • 1 cup warm water
  • 1/4 cup vegetable oil
  • 2 large eggs + 1 for egg wash
  • Optional: Sesame or poppy seeds for topping

Step-by-Step Challah Recipe

Follow these simple steps to bake your own beautiful challah bread:

  1. Prepare the Dough:
    • In a large bowl, mix together flour, salt, and sugar.
    • In a separate bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
    • Add oil and eggs to the yeast mixture. Whisk well.
    • Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
  2. Knead the Dough:
    • Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add flour one tablespoon at a time.
    • Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook and knead on medium speed for 6-8 minutes.
  3. First Rise:
    • Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat all sides. Cover with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel.
    • Let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
  4. Divide and Braid:
    • Punch down the dough gently.
    • Divide the dough into 3 or 6 equal pieces, depending on the braid you desire.
    • Roll each piece into a long strand, about 12-14 inches long.
    • Pinch the strands together at one end. Braid the strands together like you would braid hair. Pinch the other end to seal.
  5. Second Rise:
    • Place the braided challah on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
    • Cover loosely with plastic wrap and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes.
  6. Bake:
    • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
    • In a small bowl, whisk the remaining egg with a tablespoon of water to make an egg wash.
    • Brush the egg wash over the challah and sprinkle with sesame or poppy seeds, if desired.
    • Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the challah is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
  7. Cool:
    • Let the challah cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.

Tips for the Perfect Challah

  • Use Fresh Yeast: Ensure your yeast is active for the best rise.
  • Warm Water: The water should be warm to activate the yeast but not too hot, or it will kill it.
  • Don't Over-Knead: Over-kneading can result in tough bread.
  • Egg Wash: Don't skip the egg wash! It gives the challah its beautiful, glossy finish.
  • Cool Completely: Allow the challah to cool completely before slicing to prevent a gummy texture.

Serving Suggestions

Challah is versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways:

  • Classic: Serve it fresh with butter or jam.
  • French Toast: Use challah to make decadent French toast.
  • Sandwiches: Its soft texture makes it perfect for sandwiches.
  • Bread Pudding: Transform day-old challah into a comforting bread pudding.

Variations

  • Honey Challah: Add an extra 1/4 cup of honey to the dough for a sweeter taste.
  • Chocolate Chip Challah: Mix in chocolate chips before braiding for a delightful treat.
  • Raisin Challah: Incorporate raisins for added texture and sweetness.

This homemade challah recipe is a wonderful way to bring a touch of tradition and warmth to your table. Enjoy the process of baking and savor the delicious results!