Description
Challah bread is a delightful, soft, and slightly sweet braided loaf that elevates any meal, from Shabbat dinners to festive gatherings. With its golden crust and tender interior, making homemade challah is a rewarding experience that fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma. Perfect for beginners and seasoned bakers alike, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a comforting masterpiece that everyone will love.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups all-purpose flour (unbleached)
- 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm water (110°F/43°C)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp salt
- ¼ cup vegetable oil (or olive oil)
Instructions
- Activate the yeast by mixing warm water and sugar in a bowl; sprinkle yeast on top and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- In a large bowl, mix flour and salt. Create a well in the center, add the yeast mixture, eggs, and oil; stir until just combined.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap or a towel, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size (about 1 hour).
- Punch down the dough gently; divide into three equal portions, roll into ropes, and braid together.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the braided loaf with an egg wash and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Jewish
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 20mg