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Classic Challah Bread

A beautifully braided, golden brown challah bread loaf with a glossy crust.
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A soft, slightly sweet, and beautifully braided egg bread, perfect for holidays or any occasion.

Ingredients

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  • 1 cup warm water (105-115°F)
  • 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
  • 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs, divided
  • ½ cup vegetable oil
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 tablespoon white vinegar
  • 1 egg yolk, beaten with 1 tablespoon water (for egg wash)

Instructions

  1. In a small bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and 1 teaspoon sugar. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour and salt.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together ½ cup sugar, 3 large eggs, vegetable oil, honey, and vinegar.
  4. Add the yeast mixture and the egg mixture to the flour mixture. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
  5. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  6. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
  7. Punch down the dough and divide it into 3 equal pieces.
  8. Roll each piece into a rope about 18 inches long.
  9. Place the ropes side-by-side on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Pinch the tops together.
  10. Braid the ropes: cross the left rope over the middle rope, then cross the right rope over the new middle rope. Repeat until you reach the end. Pinch the bottom ends together.
  11. Cover the braided loaf loosely with plastic wrap and let rise for another 30-45 minutes.
  12. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  13. Brush the top of the loaf with the egg wash.
  14. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
  15. Let cool on a wire rack before slicing.

Notes

  • For a glossier finish, you can add a second egg wash before baking.
  • You can add poppy seeds or sesame seeds to the egg wash for extra flavor and visual appeal.
  • This bread is excellent for French toast the next day.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://recipestokeep.com/challah-bread-recipe/