Challah Bread

Challah bread is a traditional Jewish braided loaf known for its beautiful golden crust, soft interior, and slightly sweet flavor. Often enjoyed during Shabbat and holidays, challah has become a beloved bread around the world, perfect for serving with dinner, making French toast, or enjoying on its own.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Challah bread is visually stunning and surprisingly easy to make at home. The dough is rich and slightly sweet, with a pillowy texture that stays soft for days. The braiding process is therapeutic and satisfying, and the result is a loaf that impresses on both taste and presentation. Whether you’re baking for tradition or trying something new, challah delivers every time.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• All-purpose flour
• Warm water
• Active dry yeast
• Sugar
• Eggs
• Egg yolk (for egg wash)
• Vegetable oil
• Salt

directions

this recipe

1. In a small bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and a pinch of sugar. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, eggs, oil, and the yeast mixture. Stir to form a dough.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot for about 1½ to 2 hours, or until doubled in size.
5. Punch down the dough and divide it into 3 or 4 equal portions. Roll each portion into ropes and braid them into a loaf.
6. Transfer the braided loaf to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover and let rise for another 30–45 minutes.
7. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
8. Brush the loaf with beaten egg yolk for a glossy finish.
9. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
10. Let cool before slicing.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 1 large loaf of challah, serving about 10–12 people.
Prep time: 25 minutes
Rise time: 2 to 2½ hours
Bake time: 30–35 minutes
Total time: About 3 hours

Variations

• Sweet topping: Sprinkle with sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or a little coarse sugar.
• Raisin challah: Add raisins to the dough for a touch of sweetness.
• Whole wheat version: Substitute half the flour with whole wheat for a heartier loaf.
• Stuffed challah: Fill the strands with chocolate spread or fruit preserves before braiding for a delicious surprise.

storage/reheating

Store challah in an airtight bag or container at room temperature for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, warm slices in the oven at 300°F for about 5 minutes, or toast them for a crisp edge. Avoid refrigerating, as it can dry out the bread faster.

FAQs

What is challah bread?

Challah is a traditional Jewish braided bread, slightly sweet and egg-enriched, often served during Shabbat and holidays.

Can I make challah without a stand mixer?

Yes, you can knead the dough by hand. It may take a few extra minutes but works just as well.

Why is egg used in challah dough?

Eggs enrich the dough, giving challah its characteristic soft texture and golden color.

How do I braid challah?

Standard loaves are made with a 3-strand braid, but you can use 4, 6, or more for a more intricate design.

Why does my challah come out dry?

Overbaking or adding too much flour can make challah dry. Stick to the recipe and bake just until golden and cooked through.

What’s the best flour for challah?

All-purpose flour is traditional, but bread flour can also be used for a chewier texture.

Can I make mini challah loaves?

Yes, divide the dough into smaller portions and reduce baking time by about 10–15 minutes.

Is challah the same as brioche?

They are similar in richness, but brioche includes butter and milk, while challah is dairy-free and oil-based.

Can I use honey instead of sugar?

Yes, honey adds a wonderful depth of flavor and is a great alternative sweetener.

What dishes can I make with leftover challah?

Use it for French toast, bread pudding, croutons, or sandwiches.

Conclusion

Challah bread is a timeless, comforting bake that brings warmth to any table. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday, hosting a dinner, or simply baking for fun, challah is a rewarding recipe that tastes as good as it looks. Once you try it homemade, you’ll want it as a staple in your bread-baking repertoire.

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