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Challah Bread

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  • Author: clara
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 3 hours (includes rising time)
  • Yield: 1 large loaf 1x
  • Category: Bread
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Jewish
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This classic Challah Bread is beautifully braided, fluffy, and slightly sweet — perfect for Shabbat, holidays, or any day you want a stunning, homemade loaf.


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour, plus more as needed
  • 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 3/4 cup warm water (110°F/43°C)
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1/4 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 egg (for egg wash)
  • 1 tablespoon sesame or poppy seeds (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a small bowl, dissolve yeast and 1 teaspoon sugar in warm water. Let sit for 5–10 minutes, until foamy.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together remaining sugar, salt, eggs, and oil. Add the yeast mixture and stir to combine.
  3. Gradually add flour, one cup at a time, stirring until a shaggy dough forms. Knead dough on a lightly floured surface for about 8–10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
  4. Place dough in an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1–2 hours, or until doubled in size.
  5. Punch down dough and divide into 3 or 4 equal pieces. Roll each piece into long ropes and braid together. Pinch ends to seal and tuck underneath.
  6. Place loaf on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover loosely and let rise again for about 30–45 minutes, until puffy.
  7. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Beat remaining egg and brush over the loaf. Sprinkle with seeds if using.
  8. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped. Cool on a wire rack before slicing.

Notes

  • Use bread flour for an even chewier texture, if desired.
  • Try a 6-strand braid for a more intricate look.
  • Leftover challah makes excellent French toast.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 180
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 120mg
  • Fat: 4g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 35mg