Are you ready to bake the most delicious, soft, and subtly sweet challah bread? This recipe is perfect for beginners and experienced bakers alike, promising a wonderfully rewarding homemade experience. Forget store-bought bread; this recipe delivers a truly exceptional challah, perfect for Shabbat, special occasions, or simply enjoying a delicious homemade loaf any day of the week. This easy recipe ensures even quick dinner ideas incorporate a touch of homemade goodness. And the best part? We’ve included a video tutorial on YouTube (link below!) to guide you through each step.
Watch the Video Tutorial!
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Ingredients:
- 1 cup (240ml) warm water (105-115°F)
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 4 cups (500g) all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Sesame seeds or poppy seeds (optional, for topping)
Instructions:
Getting Started: Activating the Yeast
- In a large bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy. This crucial step ensures your yeast is alive and ready to work its magic, creating that light and airy texture we all love in challah.
Combining the Ingredients:
- Add the egg and oil to the yeast mixture and whisk well. This creates a smooth base for your dough.
- Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing with a wooden spoon or spatula until a shaggy dough forms. Don't worry if it seems a little sticky at this stage.
Kneading 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 a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time. Kneading develops the gluten, resulting in that characteristic soft and chewy texture of challah.
First Rise:
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size. This allows the yeast to do its work, expanding the dough.
Shaping the Challah:
- Gently punch down the dough to release the air. Divide the dough into three equal pieces. Roll each piece into a 16-inch rope.
- Braid the three ropes together. Pinch the ends together to seal. (You can find many visual tutorials online if braiding isn't your forte!)
Second Rise:
- Place the braided challah on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover loosely with plastic wrap and let rise for another 30-45 minutes, until almost doubled. This second rise allows the bread to puff up nicely during baking.
Baking the Challah:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush the challah with beaten egg and sprinkle with sesame seeds or poppy seeds, if desired.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 200°F (93°C). Use a bread thermometer for the most accurate reading.
Cooling and Enjoying:
- Let the challah cool completely on a wire rack before slicing and serving. This allows the bread to set and prevents it from becoming soggy.
Tips for the Best Challah:
- Use a kitchen scale for accurate measurements, especially for the flour.
- Don't over-knead the dough, or it will become tough.
- Let the dough rise in a warm place, away from drafts.
- Use a bread thermometer to ensure the challah is baked through.
- Store leftover challah in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.
Variations:
- Add raisins, cranberries, or chocolate chips to the dough for a sweeter challah.
- Use different types of seeds, such as sunflower seeds or flax seeds, for topping.
- Try using a different type of oil, such as olive oil or avocado oil.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: 250-300
- Fat: 5-7g
- Protein: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 45-55g
- Fiber: 2-3g
This delicious challah bread recipe is a perfect addition to your repertoire of healthy meals and easy recipes. Enjoy the process of homemade cooking and the delightful taste of this classic bread! It's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any occasion, making it one of the best recipes you'll ever try.