Description
Homemade Challah is a beautifully braided bread that boasts a golden crust and a soft, pillowy interior. Each bite is a delightful balance of buttery richness and subtle sweetness, making it perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- Flour: 4 cups all-purpose flour, sifted
- Yeast: 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- Water: 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F)
- Sugar: 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- Salt: 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- Eggs: 3 large eggs, plus 1 for egg wash
- Butter: 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water with 1 tablespoon of sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, remaining sugar, and salt.
- Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture, melted butter, and eggs. Mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough and divide it into three equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope and braid them together.
- Place the braided dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover and let rise for another 30-45 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush the dough with the beaten egg for a shiny finish.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Let cool on a wire rack before slicing.
Notes
- This bread can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- For longer storage, freeze the baked challah for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
- Substitute honey for sugar for a more traditional flavor.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Breads
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Jewish
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (about 1 oz)
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 2 grams
- Sodium: 150 milligrams
- Fat: 4 grams
- Saturated Fat: 2 grams
- Unsaturated Fat: 2 grams
- Trans Fat: 0 grams
- Carbohydrates: 18 grams
- Fiber: 1 gram
- Protein: 3 grams
- Cholesterol: 30 milligrams
Keywords: Homemade Challah, braided bread, Jewish bread, soft bread, buttery bread, sweet bread, challah recipe, traditional challah, egg bread, festive bread, bread baking, easy bread recipe, homemade bread, challah for Shabbat, challah bread